Siargao: The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) 13 (Caraga Region) has announced the commencement of construction for three solar-powered pump projects on Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte. This development is set to enhance the irrigation systems for local farmers.

According to Philippines News Agency, NIA-13 conducted simultaneous pre-construction conferences earlier this week with the recipient irrigators' associations. These meetings are a required step before the projects can be implemented, ensuring that all stakeholders are aligned.

The solar pump projects are poised to benefit the communities of Barangay Consuelo in General Luna, Barangay Sayak in Del Carmen, and Barangay Buhing Kalipay in San Isidro. Hundreds of farmers, who are part of the irrigators' associations in these areas, will directly benefit from the projects.

Each of the three projects has an allocated budget of PHP15 million, amounting to a total of PHP45 million. Upon completion, the projects are expected to irrigate over 15 hectares of farmland in each of the targeted towns.

NIA-13 stated that the completion of these projects is anticipated to lead to increased agricultural productivity on Siargao Island.