Masbate Advances with Solar-Powered Irrigation Projects
Legazpi City—The National Irrigation Administration in Bicol (NIA-5) has recently handed over solar-powered irrigation projects valued at more than P70 million to various Irrigators Associations in Masbate province. This initiative highlights the agency’s commitment to sustainable farming solutions amid changing climate conditions.
NIA-5 General Manager Gaudencio de Vera explained in a phone interview that the solar-powered irrigation projects are part of a wider strategy to adapt agriculture to climate change by integrating renewable energy. He emphasized that these efforts will help local farmers optimize water use efficiently.
Significant Investments in Multiple Towns
The projects include completed solar-powered irrigation systems worth P50 million installed in the towns of Dimasalang, Balud, Mandaon, and San Jacinto. Additionally, a new P20 million project has been launched in the town of Cawayan. These developments collectively promise enhanced irrigation services across Masbate.
De Vera noted, “These projects will benefit more than 150 farmers from different towns and are expected to improve irrigation for over 220 hectares of rice fields.” This expansion is crucial for the province, where limited surface water has traditionally restricted rice farming to the rainy season only.
Extending Farming Seasons and Boosting Productivity
The introduction of solar-powered pumps will enable farmers to cultivate their lands during two or more cropping seasons, breaking free from the constraints of seasonal rainfalls. This capability is projected to significantly increase rice production and improve the livelihoods of local farmers.
“Masbate’s irrigation projects will provide farmers with reliable water access beyond the rainy season,” de Vera added. “This will help uplift the agricultural sector and support food security in the region.”
The shift to renewable energy irrigation systems also aligns with environmental goals by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting sustainable farming practices.
As the province embraces these advancements, local farmers and communities look forward to greater productivity and resilience against climate challenges.
For more news and updates on irrigation projects, visit Filipinokami.com.