By IRENE JOY DAYO
In terms of irrigation development, National Irrigation Administration (NIA) 10 manager Engr. Larry Franada of NIA-10 shared that in 2023, they have developed an estimated 97,586.87 hectares, comprising 57.98% or the total estimated irrigable area of 168,312.69.
The 22nd Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas held today, October 22, in Cagayan de Oro City features the services of the National Irrigation Administration.
NIA is a government-owned and controlled corporation mandated to plan, construct, operate, and maintain irrigation systems consistent with integrated water resource management principles to improve agricultural productivity and increase farmer’s income.
Franada discussed their programs and projects, as well as accomplishments in Northern Mindanao covering the provinces of Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, and Misamis Occidental.
Franada shared that their farming support programs aim to increase productivity in irrigated rice agriculture, improve water management technology application, increase the level of adaptation and application of farm mechanization and advanced production technologies, reduce labor costs, promote farmers and irrigators associations’ access to economical and efficient rice production, transportation, processing, and storage, reduce losses in the value chain, and promote market access and opportunities. PIA
