EMPOWERING IRRIGATORS: NIA PALAWAN IMO AND WESTERN PHILIPPINE UNIVERSITY FORGE PARTNERSHIP FOR TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER AND TRAINING

Puerto Princesa City, Palawan - The National Irrigation Administration Palawan IMO and Western Philippine University (WPU) have forged their partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) held yesterday, January 23, 2024, in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. This collaboration aims to improve the quality of life of the Irrigators Association in the province through effective training and technology transfer.

The partnership was initiated through Palawan IMO's ongoing collaboration with WPU, where they served as a Resource Person for various Livelihood Trainings conducted for the Irrigators Association. NIA Palawan IMO intends to establish a partnership with WPU to provide farmers with opportunities through seminars, training, and technology transfer. Additionally, NIA Palawan IMO will adopt WPU-developed technologies needed in the Operation and Maintenance of NIA Palawan IMO, as well as for its assisted Irrigators Association.

Under the terms of the MOA, WPU will play a crucial role in conducting needs assessment and identifying technology gaps within Palawan IMO’s operation and maintenance. Taking the lead as a technical consultant, WPU will guide all initiatives and activities related to the technology developed and adopted by NIA Palawan IMO including agriculture, operation and development. Moreover, WPU will continuously engage in making innovative technologies needed, including pre and postharvest mechanization, and provide continuous technical assistance on repair and maintenance.

The MOA was formally signed by NIA MIMAROPA Acting Regional Manager Engr. Ronilio M. Cervantes, WPU-OIC President Atty. Joselito C. Alisuag, WPU Extension Director and R4BFIA Vice-President Engr. Jibsam F. Andres, and Palawan IMO Division Manager Engr. Armando L. Flores.

-IDU Head Engr. AJ Alvarado