Ormoc city: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday expressed admiration for the PHP100-million R.M. Tan Solar Pump Irrigation Project (SPIP) in Ormoc City, the largest of its kind in Eastern Visayas, citing its use of advanced technology to boost farm productivity. The facility, developed by the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), features seven 10-horsepower solar-powered pumps designed to irrigate 100 hectares of farmland twice a year. It is expected to benefit 92 farmers and their families by replacing costly diesel pumps with a cleaner and more efficient irrigation system.

According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos remarked on the project's impressive implementation of high technology, including satellite imaging and artificial intelligence, during a gathering in Ormoc City. He highlighted that such innovations enhance agricultural yields, aligning with his administration's goals for climate-smart agriculture and food security. The use of renewable energy for irrigation not only reduces costs for farmers but also promises improved harvests.

The Ormoc SPIP is a part of NIA's broader initiative to deploy solar-powered irrigation systems across the country, with 11 additional projects nearing completion in Eastern Visayas alone. Following his review of the project, President Marcos also participated in distributing patient transport vehicles to local governments in Eastern Visayas, further supporting regional development efforts.