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More than 20 hectares of once-unused farmland in Aglipay, Quirino, have been brought back to life through the province’s first solar-powered pump irrigation system, recently completed by the National Irrigation Administration (NIA). The project is set to benefit over 15 farming households, marking a step forward in sustainable agricultural development.
According to Rachelle Anne Mariquit Rueda of NIA-Quirino, the project aligns with President Marcos Jr.’s push to modernize local agriculture and strengthen food security. It also reflects NIA’s ongoing efforts to deliver sustainable, cost-efficient irrigation to rural areas.
“Now, the irrigation system is already making waves among farmers and community leaders, who see it as a beacon of innovation and hope,” Rueda stated.
(Also read: P96-M Solar Streetlights Boost Nighttime Safety in Agoo)
Upgrading irrigation infrastructure
The newly installed irrigation system delivers water through a pressurized pipe network, providing a steady and efficient supply to farmlands without relying on diesel engines or unpredictable rainfall. By harnessing solar energy, the system helps cut greenhouse gas emissions and reduces operating costs for farmers—making agriculture both more sustainable and financially practical.
Rueda added that the initiative supports national efforts toward inclusive rural growth, improved farmer livelihoods, and a shift toward environmentally sustainable and innovative agricultural practices.
“This project aims to contribute to the country’s inclusive growth and to improve the quality of life for farmers,” she noted.
More than just improving farm productivity, the project contributes to Quirino’s long-term goal of becoming a leading agro-industrial and eco-tourism hub in Northern Luzon. Rueda highlighted that the initiative reflects a broader commitment to “building a climate-resilient, self-reliant future for rural communities,” which paves the way for inclusive and sustainable provincial growth.
(Also read: Ilocos Strengthens Climate Goals, Receives P305-M Funding)
NIA launches irrigation system in Masbate
In early July, NIA also launched the Maihao Solar Pump Irrigation Project in Barangay Maihao, Cawayan, Masbate. The P20-million initiative marks a significant move toward clean-energy farming in the province.
Designed to serve at least 30 farmers and irrigate 20 hectares of land, the system aims to provide a stable, sustainable water source while cutting reliance on rainfall. The project is expected to be completed by April 2026.
The Maihao project forms part of NIA’s larger P70-million push to expand solar-powered irrigation across Masbate. Similar systems are already operational in San Jacinto, Mandaon, Balud, and Dimasalang.
NIA noted that the project is helping transition farmers from traditional, rain-dependent planting to multi-season cultivation—an approach expected to raise productivity and improve income for farming communities.
House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez noted the broader significance of the initiative, calling attention to the impact of sustainable irrigation on rural livelihoods. “Every drop of water is a drop of hope,” his message stated, underscoring its role in uplifting Filipino farmers.
The Maihao initiative is set to roll out in two phases, with the current P20-million funding supporting the first stage of development. As the project scales up, NIA estimates it will eventually serve more than 100 farmers in the area.
Sources:
https://pia.gov.ph/nia-launches-solar-pump-irrigation-system-in-quirino
https://powerphilippines.com/nia-launches-quirinos-first-solar-powered-pump-irrigation-system/