Ilocos norte: A total of 40 households composed of 161 residents in remote Sitio Nagtengna, Barangay San Marcelino, will benefit from a new PHP3 million water system inaugurated on Wednesday. The project, funded by the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), will also irrigate about 10 hectares of agricultural crops, according to NIA Ilocos Norte Manager Joselito De Vera.

According to Philippines News Agency, De Vera expressed satisfaction with the project's completion, stating that it demonstrates the government's commitment to addressing community needs. He encouraged the beneficiaries to maintain the water system, highlighting the importance of having accessible potable water.

Mayor Joemelle Go Sy expressed her gratitude to NIA for their approval of the project, emphasizing its significance for local farmers and villagers. She reiterated the importance of water by stating, "Water is life."

Community members, led by barangay captain Noli Calaoagan, voiced their appreciation for the new system. They noted that the water system eliminates the need to fetch water from distant sources for daily activities and supports increased agricultural productivity.