NIA breaks ground on P20-M solar-powered irrigation

By Rhaydz B. Barcia

CAWAYAN, Masbate --- In a bid to improve irrigation services and boost rice production in Masbate, the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) has allocated P20 million for its first solar-powered irrigation system in the province.

NIA Administrator Engr. Eduardo “Eddie” G. Guillen led the ground-breaking ceremony of the Maihao Solar-Powered Irrigation Project (SPIP) in Barangay Maihao, Cawayan—marking a significant milestone in the agency’s push for sustainable irrigation solutions. The project, which is expected to benefit around 30 farmers, is initially programmed to irrigate 20 hectares of rice land.

During the event, Guillen also led the turnover of various completed solar-powered irrigation projects worth over P50 million to approximately 120 farmer-beneficiaries. He was joined by top NIA officials in Bicol, as well as provincial and municipal officials from Masbate, including representatives from the towns of Cawayan, Dimasalang, Balud, Mandaon, and San Jacinto.

The completed projects include the installation of solar-powered pumps and canal systems in several areas: Balantay SPIP in Dimasalang; Mambog SPIP and Alas Communal Irrigation Project (CIP) in Mandaon; Pulanduta SPIP in Balud; and Puro SPIP in San Jacinto, Ticao Island. In total, these projects are expected to enhance irrigation for more than 220 hectares of rice land.

According to NIA officials, the use of solar-powered pump systems forms part of the agency’s strategy to adapt to climate change while harnessing renewable energy sources. The initiative aims to accelerate irrigation development and support agricultural modernization nationwide.

Guillen emphasized the importance of irrigation in the national food security program of the Marcos administration.

“Irrigation projects not only benefit farmers but every Filipino family that relies on affordable food on the table,” he said. “By using solar energy, we are not only reducing irrigation costs but also responding to the challenges of climate change. This kind of system is not only environment-friendly—it is more cost-efficient, more reliable, and built to last.”

Masbate has long struggled with limited surface water sources, forcing farmers to rely primarily on rainfall for cultivation. With these new projects, farmers will now have the opportunity to plant rice for two or more cropping seasons.

“These initiatives will significantly increase rice production and improve the living conditions of farmers in Masbate,” said NIA Bicol Regional Manager Engr. Gaudencio John M. De Vera.

In a related development, NIA also announced that the feasibility study for the proposed Lanang Multi-Purpose Dam Project has been approved. The agency is aiming to jumpstart the high-impact project this year. Apart from expanding irrigated areas, the dam is envisioned to serve multiple purposes—including water supply, flood control, hydropower generation, and even tourism development.

In a message delivered by Masbate 3rd District Rep. Wilton T. Kho, House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez underscored the administration’s focus on countryside development.

“Ang Bagong Pilipinas ay hindi itinatayo sa Maynila lamang. Ito ay itinatayo dito sa mga palayan, sa mga sakahan, sa mga malalayong barangay, kung saan ang bawat patak ng tubig ay may katumbas na pag-asa. At bawat proyekto ay may kahulugan sa pang-araw-araw na hanapbuhay ng ordinaryong mga Pilipino,” the Speaker said.