By Ahikam Pasion
STA. BARBARA—A mobile solar-powered irrigation system aimed at reducing production costs and promoting climate-smart agriculture was introduced to farmers in Pangasinan during a field demonstration in Barangay Banaoang, Sta. Barbara.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) said the system allows farmers to irrigate their fields without the need for diesel or gasoline, helping lower operational expenses while encouraging the use of renewable energy in agriculture.
Dr. Marvin Quilates, officer-in-charge of the Provincial Rice Extension Coordinator (PREC) and Agriculture Program Coordinating Officer of DA Pangasinan, said five farmers, or members of a farmers’ association, comprise the initial batch of beneficiaries, pointing out that additional batches are expected to benefit as the program expands.
Aside from the solar-powered irrigation system, DA Pangasinan continues to implement other agricultural initiatives, including the Goat Multiplier Farm and the Dairy Carabao Project in partnership with the Philippine Carabao Center. Such projects are intended to strengthen livestock enterprise development and support the production of fresh milk and animal feed.
The solar-powered irrigation system is also expected to support the cultivation of feed crops such as taro grass, which are essential for livestock production.
Meanwhile, in Mangaldan, the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Soils and Water Management (DA-BSWM) distributed six rotary composters and waste shredders to selected barangays and schools as part of its waste management support program.
The equipment aims to reduce biodegradable waste, promote compost production, and improve waste handling in farms, markets, and schools. A brief training on the proper operation and maintenance of the machines was conducted during the turnover.
Recipients included Mangaldan Integrated School SPED Center, Embarcadero Elementary School, Mangaldan National High School, Salaan Elementary School, Barangays Malabago and Landas.
Local officials and school representatives welcomed the project, saying the equipment is expected to contribute to improved waste management practices and environmental protection efforts in the municipality.