SARIAYA, Quezon (PIA) — Farmers in Sariaya, Quezon expect to benefit from reduced farming costs following the turnover of a new solar-powered irrigation project by the National Irrigation Administration (NIA).
Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and NIA Administrator Eduardo Guillen led the ceremonial turnover of the Castanas Centro Communal Irrigation System on April 30.
According to NIA Calabarzon, the ₱50-million irrigation system, designed to harness solar energy, aims to cut operating expenses by replacing traditional diesel-powered pumps with a more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative.
“The project is expected to save farmers approximately ₱80,000 per cropping season which is a significant financial relief that can be redirected toward other agricultural needs. Beyond the cost savings, the system provides a reliable and renewable water source, which is vital in areas where water supply is limited,” NIA Calabarzon said.
In his message, Romualdez reaffirmed the government’s strong support for the agricultural sector, recognizing farmers as the backbone of the country’s food security.
Guillen also underscored NIA’s commitment to advancing innovative and sustainable irrigation technologies particularly in rural areas.
Frederico Alday, president of the Irrigators Association in Castanas, expressed gratitude to the national government and NIA for their continued support.
“Unti-unti, nakikita ko na muling nabubuo ang sigla ng mga magsasaka rito. Hindi lamang kami nagsusumikap para mabuhay, nagsisimula na rin kaming mangarap muli,” Alday said.
In 2024, Barangay Castanas was selected as the site of a solar-powered irrigation system integrated with artificial intelligence (AI)-driven fertigation technology, implemented by the NIA-Quezon Irrigation Management Office.
According to the Department of Agriculture, fertigation is the application of nutrients through irrigation systems. It involves a contraction of fertilization and irrigation to supply the plant with its daily demand of water and nutrients/fertilizers as required by its specific growth stage throughout its development.
“What once seemed like a distant dream is now a reality, thanks to collaboration and perseverance. I never expected that this day will come when our farms will be brought back to life,” said Barangay Captain Cenon Albina of Castanas Centro.
The project is expected to complement existing irrigation systems by tapping into local groundwater sources, providing an additional water supply. – Ruel Orinday
