Pantabangan: The current rise in the water levels of Pantabangan and Magat dams due to continuous monsoon rains benefits irrigation and agriculture, especially rice-producing areas, the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) said Tuesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, NIA Administrator Eduardo Guillen stated that the increase in rainwater has significantly bolstered the water reserves needed to counter the looming El Ni±o phenomenon in the country. He emphasized the importance of the reserves, noting that the water held in Magat Dam is equivalent to the irrigation needs of approximately 90,000 hectares, while Pantabangan Dam's reserves correspond to about 100,000 hectares.

Guillen highlighted the positive impact on farms affected by El Ni±o, particularly in the regions of Isabela and Cagayan, which are now seeing recovery. He expressed optimism that these water reserves will sustain irrigation during the peak months of the El Ni±o effect.

The two dams have the potential to contribute approximately 950,000 metric tons of palay, valued at roughly PHP25 billion. NIA is committed to closely monitoring the water levels of both dams to maintain the integrity of irrigation facilities. Currently, no spill discharge has been recorded, and no spillway gates have been opened.

As of Tuesday, 8 a.m., the water level in Magat Dam is 178.27 meters above sea level, marginally higher than the 178.06 meters recorded on August 17. The Pantabangan Dam's water level has risen to 187.72 meters, up from 187.23 meters logged on Monday.