Marcos: Gov’t expanding use of solar-powered irrigation

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday said the government is expanding the use of solar-powered irrigation systems amid the threat of the Super El Niño anticipated by year-end until early 2027.

He made the remarks during the inauguration of the Tugbong Solar Pump Irrigation Project (SPIP) in Barangay Tugbong, Kananga, Leyte.

“All these efforts have become more important. That is why I am going around the country and ensuring that our irrigation systems are in good condition because El Niño is approaching and has become a growing concern,” Mr. Marcos said in his speech.

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He said solar-powered irrigation systems could help farmers save on operating costs, as diesel-powered pumps could cost around P20,000 per planting season.

The President said “So far, we have installed 3,000 solar pump irrigation systems across the Philippines, and 70 percent of our irrigable lands are now irrigated.”

Tugbong SPIP, one of two solar irrigation projects inaugurated in Leyte, will provide irrigation to 115 hectares of rice fields in Barangays Tugbong and Sto. Niño in Kananga.

The other facility, the Guintigui-an Solar Pump Irrigation Project in Ormoc City, will serve 70 hectares of farmland and benefit 87 farmers. INQ