NIA turns over P160-M irrigation projects to farmers in Surigao Sur
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
TAGO, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) through its Surigao del Sur Irrigation Management Office (SDS-IMO) recently turned over four completed communal irrigation system (CIS) projects to various farmer beneficiaries in a ceremony held at the SDS-IMO compound in Tago town.
With a total investment of P160 million, the newly completed irrigation projects include the Sta. Felomina CIS in Tandag City, Haguimitan and Marga CIS in San Miguel, and Mabog CIS in Bislig City.
These irrigation systems are expected to dramatically enhance agricultural productivity by enabling consistent irrigation across the covered areas, allowing for at least two cropping seasons annually, a target long envisioned by local farmers.
The ceremony featured the symbolic turnover of the key of responsibility from NIA to the farmer-beneficiaries, followed by the signing of turnover documents between NIA representatives and the leaders of the irrigators’ associations.
SDS-IMO Manager Adeline H. Manlunas presented the project profiles and emphasized the collaborative efforts behind their success. “These projects are the fruits of a strong partnership and shared determination between NIA and our local farmers,” she said.
NIA Caraga Public Relations Officer Jane B. Huqueriza shared that while the completion of the physical infrastructure marks a major milestone, their work is far from over. “Our mission continues, NIA remains committed to supporting our farmers in their pursuit of increased rice production and agricultural sustainability,” she said.
Also present during the turnover ceremony were CIS presidents who expressed their heartfelt gratitude to NIA for transforming their vision into reality.
With these developments, farmers in Surigao del Sur look forward to a more productive and resilient farming, nurtured by water, empowered by unity, and sustained through government support. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur with a report from NIA Caraga)
