Solar irrigation inaugurated to help Cagayan farmers amid El Niño

The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) has inaugurated and turned over solar-powered irrigation systems in Ballesteros and Aparri and completed another installation in Buguey, Cagayan, to help farmers maintain water access amid the threat of a strong El Niño.

In Barangay Palloc, Ballesteros, NIA formally opened the municipality’s first solar-powered submersible water pump system on 14 October The project, implemented under the East Apayao-Abulug Irrigation System, is designed to irrigate up to 15 hectares and benefit 10 farmers.

Another system in Barangay Plaza, Aparri West, is also designed to irrigate up to 15 hectares and serve 15 farmers, bringing the total number of beneficiaries of the two projects to 25.

NIA said the systems use solar energy to pump water, helping sustain irrigation during dry conditions while reducing farmers’ dependence on fuel and grid electricity.

Meanwhile, NIA’s Banurbur Creek Irrigation System inaugurated a separate solar-powered irrigation project in Barangay Tabbac, Buguey, under the Cagayan-Batanes Irrigation Management Office. The project is expected to benefit 18 farmers.

During the ceremony, NIA personnel briefed beneficiaries on the system’s operation and maintenance to ensure its proper use and sustainability.

NIA officials also emphasized the importance of following a common cropping calendar and scheduled water deliveries to ensure the efficient distribution of available irrigation water.

The projects aim to help farmers mitigate drought risks, sustain crop production and protect their livelihoods as the province prepares for potentially prolonged dry conditions. However, their effectiveness will depend on water availability, system capacity and proper maintenance.