PASUQUIN, Ilocos Norte (PIA) — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is set to inaugurate the P334 million Sulvec Small Irrigation Project (SRIP) on July 19, 2024, in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte.
This project, implemented by the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), aims to deliver sustainable development for 1,045 farmers and their families across 10 barangays in the town.
The project encompasses Barangays Sulbec, Prataga, Nagsanga, Poblacion 4, Salpad, Susugaen, Nalvo, Estancia, Sulongan, and Caruan.
It will provide these communities with access to reliable irrigation, fostering agricultural growth and improved livelihoods.
Engr. Eduardo Eddie Guillen, NIA administrator, along with provincial and municipal officials, irrigator’s association representatives, and beneficiaries, will attend the inauguration.
Guillen emphasized NIA’s unwavering commitment to providing excellent and dependable irrigation services to Filipino farmers, contributing to the “Bagong Pilipinas” vision.
Norman Bulusan, president of the Sulvec SRIP and a beneficiary himself, expressed his deepest gratitude.
“Sa ngalan po ng irrigator’s association ay nagpapasalamat po kami ng marami lalong-lalo na po sa ating mahal na Pangulo Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., sapagkat isa pong dream come true ito at talagang kami pong mga magsasaka ay tiyak na matutulungang maparami ang aming ani,” he said.
(On behalf of the irrigator’s association, we are incredibly thankful, especially to President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. This project is a dream come true, and it will undoubtedly help us farmers significantly increase our harvest.)
The reservoir irrigation system is expected to significantly boost agricultural production in the target areas.
Upon its completion in December 2023, it has the potential to increase the production value of rice and other high-value crops from P213,272.00 to P390,292.61.
The Sulvec SRIP encompasses the construction of a 32-meter earth fill dam, apperture structures, a diversion dam with a 1.60-kilometer distance downstream of the main dam, a network of canals with concrete lining totaling 43.20 kilometers, and approximately 334 terminal facilities.
This comprehensive infrastructure will provide irrigation services across the designated areas.
Beyond irrigation, the project offers additional benefits.
The reservoir can impound rainwater for irrigation purposes, mitigating flood risks during typhoons.
It also strengthens the watershed, promoting aquifer recharge and contributing to biodiversity revitalization.
The Sulvec SRIP is a testament to the government’s commitment to rural development and agricultural modernization in Ilocos Norte.
This investment is poised to empower farmers, enhance food security, and contribute to the economic growth of the region. (AMB/ATV/PIA Ilocos Sur)
