DAVAO CITY – The National Irrigation Administration-Davao Region (NIA-11) has allocated PhP 2.5 billion for 80 irrigation projects this year, a senior official said Tuesday.
Speaking during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas forum here, NIA-11 Manager Jimmy Apostol reported that 41 of the projects have been completed as of the third quarter, representing nearly 80 percent of the total.
Among the ongoing initiatives are two major projects: Manat National Irrigation Project (NIP) in Montevista, Davao de Oro; and the Upper Saug River Irrigation Project (RIP) in New Corella, Davao del Norte.
“Once completed, the Manat NIP will irrigate nearly 1, 000 hectares and benefit over 600 farmers. The project also includes solar-powered pumps,” Apostol said.
Meanwhile, the Upper Saug RIP will irrigate 1, 040 hectares, supporting at least 300 farmers.
The Manat NIP has a project cost of PhP 708 million and is expected to be completed next year, while the PhP 712 million Upper Saug RIP is set to finish this year.
Apostol explained that the selection of beneficiaries depends on factors such as the area, population, and water supply, with assessments conducted based on requests from local governments, communities or individuals.
He noted that irrigation development in Region 11 reached 61.32 percent last year, providing services to 108, 869 hectares, leaving 68, 678 hectares still to be developed. (PNA)