Bohol: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. inaugurated the Calunasan Small Reservoir Irrigation Project (SRIP) in Barangay Calunasan, Calape, Bohol, aimed at irrigating up to 300 hectares of farmland in the province. This significant infrastructure project is expected to enhance agricultural productivity and support local farmers.
According to Philippines News Agency, the President was joined by National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Administrator Eduardo Guillen for the unveiling of the project marker. In his remarks, President Marcos highlighted the government's dedication to expanding irrigated agricultural lands across the nation. He emphasized the administration's commitment to bolstering farmers' production and income, stating, "[P]ara sa ating mga magsasaka ay gagawin namin ang lahat para tulungan kayo na 'yung production ninyo at maging mas mataas, at ang kita ninyo ay magiging mas mataas."
The Calunasan SRIP is designed to deliver consistent, year-round irrigation to at least four barangays in the region, including Calape-Calunasan, Abucayan Sur, Lucob, and Bentig. This initiative is set to benefit around 400 farmers by improving farm productivity while also supporting aquaculture and flood management efforts.
NIA-Region 7 Acting Manager for Engineering and Operations Division Nelson Doliente confirmed that the dam and irrigation facilities are fully operational, having served local farmers since a test run on August 20. The project, costing PHP813 million, is 97.94 percent complete, with remaining works such as slope protection and the construction of a view deck expected to be finished by November 23, 2025.
