President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. today led the groundbreaking ceremony for the Lower Agno River Irrigation System facilities, also known as the Paitan Dam, a landmark irrigation project set to revolutionize agricultural productivity and improve the lives of thousands of farmers in Sta. Maria, Pangasinan, and beyond.
The Paitan Dam, a collaborative undertaking between the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) and the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), is engineered to deliver vital irrigation to over 12,000 hectares of farmland, directly benefiting approximately 12,000 farmers and significantly boosting their harvests.
During his address, President Marcos underscored the government’s commitment to addressing the day-to-day challenges faced by Filipinos. He highlighted that the irrigation system will provide crucial support to 56 Irrigators’ Associations, comprising 11,942 member farmers, across Eastern Pangasinan municipalities including Sta. Maria, Rosales, Sto. Tomas, Alcala, Bautista, and Bayambang. The project’s reach will also extend to San Manuel and Moncada in Tarlac, and Cuyapo in Nueva Ecija.
The President acknowledged the devastating impact of the recent El Niño phenomenon, which severely affected the nation, particularly Pangasinan and the entire Region I, leading to widespread water shortages and crop damage. “Noong nakaraang taon, matinding El Niño ang tumama sa ating bansa. Isa ang Pangasinan sa mga probinsyang nakaranas ng epekto ng tag-tuyot. Ang buong Region I ay nakaranas ng kakulangan ng tubig na siyang nakasira sa mga pananim,” President Marcos stated.
He reiterated the government’s swift provision of assistance to affected farmers and emphasized the proactive steps being taken to build long-term solutions. “Pero ngayon, nandito tayo para simulan ang solusyon. Mayroon po tayong ginagawa at mayroon pa tayong magagawa,” he affirmed.
The Lower Agno River Irrigation System project is anticipated to substantially elevate the production of rice and other high-value crops, leading to increased incomes and improved livelihoods for farmers and agricultural workers. The project is expected to be completed by December 2027.
The groundbreaking ceremony saw the presence of various national and local government officials, signifying the broad support for this critical agricultural infrastructure. In a further commitment to agricultural development, President Marcos also presided over the turnover of essential farm machinery and equipment, farm inputs, and solar-powered irrigation projects during the same event.
This monumental project underscores the administration’s dedication to strengthening the agricultural sector, ensuring food security, and enhancing the resilience of Filipino farmers against the impacts of climate change.
