NEW IRRIGATION. Farmers in Ilocos Sur witnessed the completion of the Barbar Small Reservoir Irrigation Project in San Juan, Ilocos Sur on Thursday (May 6, 2021). The PHP631-million project will boost productivity of farmers in the area. (Photo courtesy of the National Irrigation Administration)
LAOAG CITY – After 11 years in the making, the PHP631-million Barbar Small Reservoir Irrigation Project in San Juan, Ilocos Sur is finally completed to boost productivity of farmers in the area.
On May 6, farmer-beneficiaries from the 11 villages of San Juan and Magsingal witnessed its official inauguration which was attended by provincial and local officials.
In a statement, the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) reported the project has a service area of 846 hectares to benefit 1,156 farmers and their families.
Said project includes an earthfill dam with a capacity of 861,000 cubic meters. The dam is situated across the Bical River.
“Access roads were constructed simultaneously with the lateral canals having the same length with the latter, providing mobility and accessibility for farmers and their farm inputs and products,” NIA said.
The agency said the structure will also help address flooding in the area since it is capable of storing rainwater for irrigation.
During the inauguration, tilapia fingerlings were also released at the reservoir to boost food sustainability in the area.
“This is a big help to our farmers to improve their production of palay, corn, tobacco and vegetables,” said Ilocos Sur Governor Ryan Singson as he thanked the Duterte administration for continuing the implementation of its "Build, Build, Build” infrastructure program across the country despite the current pandemic. (PNA)
