The National Irrigation Administration-10 holds the Regional Irrigators Associations’ Congress and Inter-Agency Coordination, March 25, here. About 135 representatives of IAs from Northern Mindanao graced the event. (Photo: SHGA/PIA-10)
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) — To enhance irrigation systems, empower farmer organizations, and promote agricultural innovation, the National Irrigation Administration (NIA)-10 held the Regional Irrigators Associations’ Congress and Inter-Agency Coordination, March 25, here.
The event gathered 135 representatives from Irrigators’ Associations (IAs) across Northern Mindanao, including Lanao del Sur, highlighting the role of modern technologies and collaboration in improving agricultural productivity.
Evy Elago, Agricultural and Biosystem Division head of the Misamis Oriental Provincial Agriculture Office, discussed the importance of modern technologies in adapting to climate change. She emphasized that the provincial government of Misamis Oriental has invested in drip and sprinkle irrigation systems to support high-value crops.
Elago also noted that the local government is monitoring non-operating infrastructure projects in Misamis Oriental and highlighted the need for Irrigators’ Associations to ensure regular maintenance. She stressed the importance of collaboration in fostering smart solutions to boost agricultural productivity.
“We should not forget that as major users of the water resource, we also need to actively participate in the conservation of water resources,” Elago said.
She encouraged farmer representatives to adopt water-efficient irrigation systems, rehabilitate water sources, embrace organic farming, and establish carbon sinks to mitigate global warming.
Elago also advocated for the use of renewable energy, such as solar-powered irrigation systems, and other technologies to conserve and protect water resources.
“The work you do has impacts not just on local harvests, but also on the national food supply because you are the one who supplies the food to our farmers. Your associations play a vital role in ensuring that farmers will be able to grow crops, raise livestock, and create a stable future for their families,” she said.
During the congress, NIA-10 acting regional manager Larry Franada administered the oath of office for the newly elected officers of the Regional Federation of Irrigators Associations (RFIA) for 2025-2028.
He urged IAs, especially the new officers, to strengthen partnerships, address challenges, and maintain good health.
Franada also emphasized the importance of practical, stress-free meetings and NIA-10’s commitment to supporting irrigation services across the region.
“Counterparting ta sa lahat ng bagay. Kapit-bisig ta, tanang mga problema naa gyud ta, kung pwede atong i-solve nato kung unsa’y naa sa atoa nga sitwasyon, unsa’y naa sa atoang mga resources, kita-kita lang sa. Pag na’y mga problema gyud nga lisod kaayo sa inyoha, ayaw ninyo dibdiba, kung pwede, i-open gyud ninyo sa amoa. Kami hatagi og problema,” he said.
(We share responsibilities in everything. We stand together—whatever problems arise, we are here. If possible, let’s try to solve them based on our current situation and available resources, relying on each other. If you encounter problems that are too difficult to handle, don’t carry the burden alone. If possible, open up to us. Give us the problems, and we will help.)
Franada said the congress is one of NIA’s ways to support farmer-led initiatives and foster partnerships with government and private sectors to promote sustainable and technology-driven agricultural development in Northern Mindanao. (RTP/PIA-10)
