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President Marcos pushes expanded irrigation support for farmers

26 September 2026

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed government agencies to expand irrigation service areas nationwide in 2027 as part of efforts to increase agricultural productivity and strengthen support for Filipino farmers.

According to Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro, the Marcos administration is proposing PhP30.44 billion for the National Irrigation Administration’s (NIA) Irrigation Services Program.

Under the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 National Expenditure Program, the funding will support the development of 11,153 hectares of new irrigation service areas across the country.

“Para kay Pangulong Marcos Jr., ang investment sa irigasyon ay bahagi ng mas malawak na food security agenda ng pamahalaan kasama ang suporta sa mga magsasaka at mangingisda, produksiyon ng pagkain at pagpapataas ng farm productivity,” Castro said.

Castro also said President Marcos has emphasized the importance of strengthening irrigation infrastructure to improve agricultural productivity and support farmers’ livelihoods.

The irrigation expansion is also intended to help farmers cope with climate-related risks, including the potential effects of El Niño.

The Palace official said the government is likewise exploring alternative irrigation solutions, including solar-powered irrigation systems, as part of efforts to strengthen support for the agriculture sector.

“Ipinapakita rin nito ang matibay na pangako ng Pangulo sa sektor ng agrikultura sa kabila ng lahat ng hamong dulot ng climate change,” Castro added. | PND