Submitted by admin-r4b on
In response to the challenges posed by El Niño on agricultural activities in the Cambunang Communal Irrigation System (CIS), San Miguel CIS, and Nasukob-Cavillian CIS in Bulalacao municipality, NIA MIMAROPA, led by Regional Manager Ronilio M. Cervantes, swiftly took action. A backhoe was deployed to excavate a section of the river, creating an impoundment that allowed farmers to extract water using pumps for irrigating their onion fields.
Additionally, the NIA MOMARO IMO provided five (5) surface water pumps and 1,200 liters of fuel to the affected farmers of the said three (3) CIS. This fuel was distributed among farmers who owned water pumps. Acting Division Manager Engr. Maria Victoria O. Malenab along with other staff, collaborated with the local government unit, specifically with Municipal Administrator Mr. Gideon Abuel. They were informed that the Department of Social Welfare and Development would offer cash assistance of ₱5,000.00 per farmer.
Direct dialogue with the Irrigators Association was initiated to understand their specific needs and to explain the strategies and interventions being implemented. Looking towards the future, a proposal of ₱120 million was put forth for the construction of twelve solar-powered pumps across the three (3) systems. This initiative aims to provide cost-effective irrigation covering 533 hectares.
Furthermore, a long-term solution is being pursued through the ongoing study of the Bulalacao Small Reservoir Irrigation Project. This project involves constructing a 23-meter high impounding dam on the Cavillian River, with a target service area of 1,036 hectares. This dam will provide irrigation water to farmers in Nasukob, Campaasan, and Cambunang barangays.
Despite the challenges posed by El Niño, farmers remain optimistic about their crop harvests through the interventions and support provided to them.