By Caren Grace R. Cabanayan-Carbonell
LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte, Philippines — The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) provided additional support for agricultural production, maintaining water access amid the possible impacts of El Niño by distributing solar-powered water pumps to irrigators’ associations in Ilocos Norte during the Handog ng Pangulo (HNP) event on Sept. 14.
NIA provided one 7.5-horsepower stand-alone solar-powered pump worth P3.6 million and two two-horsepower mobile solar-powered pumps worth P1.1 million to two irrigators’ groups in the province.
Erick Gibot, president of the Bangui Abagat Irrigators Service Association Inc. and one of the recipients of the mobile solar-powered pumps, said the equipment is beneficial, especially for farmers engaged in upland farming.
“We are deeply grateful for this irrigation support, it will help our association with 40 members, especially those in the upland,” Gibot said.
Five other irrigators’ associations in the province also received various units of diesel water pumps with complete accessories.
Providing this irrigation support is a proactive measure to enhance farmers’ resilience during the dry spell as agriculture remains a major industry in Ilocos Norte, NIA said.
Solar equipment can support local farmers’ irrigation activities while reducing operational costs by lessening dependence on fuel-powered equipment.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) recently advised the public about possible below-normal rainfall in the first half of 2027.
NIA also distributed P9.18-million operations and maintenance incentives among 180 irrigators’ associations, underscoring the vital role of the latter in the proper maintenance of existing irrigation systems.
Through continued irrigation support from the government and the cooperation of local farmers, Ilocos Norte can manage the possible effects of El Niño and sustain its food production.
The awarding of said assistance and equipment was held during the HNP program, as part of the birthday celebration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., which aims to bring government services, projects, and programs closer to the people. (CCMT/CGRCC, PIA Region 1)
