Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Secretary Conrado Estrella III announced Thursday that he has directed the agency’s field officials to facilitate the inspection and repair of irrigation facilities in Agrarian Reform Communities (ARCs). 

Amid rising temperatures across country, the move will be the agency’s early measure to ensure that Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) have access to adequate water for farming.

“To keep them fully operational before the dry season intensifies,” Estrella said referring to irrigation facilities. He emphasized the need for proactive measures, including the rehabilitation of non-functional irrigation systems, to help farmers sustain their agricultural activities.

The DAR chief highlights the urgency of these preparations even as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has yet to officially declare the start of the summer season despite warmer temperatures already being felt nationwide.