GENERAL SANTOS CITY (PIA) — The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) in Region 12 has recently turned over the Amsipit Small Irrigation Project (SIP) to Klaga-Lamlangil Irrigators Association Inc. in Maasim, Sarangani, through the South Cotabato-Sarangani Irrigation Management Office (SCS-IMO).
According to the project briefer, work on the P171.7 million SIP began in 2012 and concluded in 2024, spanning over a decade.
The Klaga-Lamlangil Irrigators Association, which is a beneficiary of the project, will now oversee its operations.
“Malaki ang aking pasasalamat sa pag-turn over ng NIA nitong project dito sa aming komunidad ng Lamlangil lalo na dito sa aming asosasyon sa Klaga-Lamlangil Irrigators Association, malaking kasiyahan ito sa mga tao dito sa aming lugar,” said Rodel B. Maladia, president of Klaga-Lamlangil Irrigators Association, Inc.
(I am truly grateful to the NIA for turning over this project to our community of Lamlangil, especially to our association. This project will undoubtedly bring immense joy to the people in our area.)
Representing the NIA in Region 12, Engr. Ma. Luz B. Laud, the manager of the SCS-IMO Division, said the project aims to provide local farmers with sustainable access to water to further improve agricultural productivity.
“The project marks a significant milestone for the National Irrigation
Administration South Cotabato-Sarangani Irrigation Management Office, being its first irrigation initiative in Maasim,” she stated.
The briefer, further notes that the project entailed “the construction of an intake dam, the installation of 8.26 kilometers of 16-inch HDPE (high-density polyethylene) pipe and 2.52 kilometers of 8-inch HDPE pipe for the main pipeline, a 6.2-kilometer distribution pipeline, two reservoir units, a catch basin, and 18 pipeline structures.”
Amsipit SIP supports the Soccsksargen region’s Agricultural Development Plan, enhancing crop productivity, promoting sustainable water management, strengthening farmers’ capacity, improving infrastructure, establishing market linkages, and building climate resilience.
Laud noted that the successful completion of the project highlights the government’s dedication to ensuring water security and fostering agricultural sustainability, not only in the region but also in rural areas.
“Thank you to our Irrigators Association for helping make this project successful. Also, thank you to our LGUs and barangay officials for supporting our projects, especially the landowners, who have greatly helped to make this a reality,” she conveyed.
Town Mayor Zyrex C. Pacquiao also expressed appreciation to the government for completing the project, urging beneficiaries to manage and handle it with utmost care. (SRP, PIA SarGen)
