Bohol: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday led the inauguration of the PHP833.37-million Mabini-Cayacay Small Reservoir Irrigation Project (SRIP), a facility expected to provide reliable year-round water supply to 530 hectares of agricultural land in Bohol. The project, implemented by the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), will directly benefit 717 farmers in the municipalities of Mabini and Alicia.

According to Philippines News Agency, speaking during the inauguration in Barangay Abaca, Marcos stated that the project is part of the administration's efforts to protect farmers from the effects of climate change and unpredictable weather patterns. The irrigation facility will serve farmers in the barangays of Abaca, San Roque, Aguipo, and Cabidian in Mabini, as well as Barangay Cayacay in Alicia.

Marcos emphasized that the project fulfills a commitment he made during a previous visit to Bohol, noting that construction was completed in November last year. He highlighted that his return visit is proof of the promise fulfilled with the completion of the Mabini-Cayacay SRIP.

According to the President, the project will increase agricultural productivity by ensuring an adequate water supply for rice and high-value crops. Farmers may now have the opportunity to increase their planting frequency from two cropping cycles annually to as many as three.

Marcos also mentioned other ongoing irrigation projects in Bohol, such as the Bonot-Bonot Irrigation Project in Buenavista and the Hibale Irrigation Project in Danao, which are part of broader efforts to enhance agricultural productivity and food security in the province.