Farmers in Camarines Sur now have a more affordable and reliable way to water their crops after the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) turned over P332 million worth of solar-powered irrigation systems.
The projects, covering more than 1,800 hectares, are expected to benefit over 1,600 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) in the Bicol Region. The systems were built by the National Irrigation Administration and handed over to local cooperatives: New MASSBA Multi-Purpose Cooperative in Minalabac and San Agustin–San Ramon Agrarian Reform Farmers’ Cooperative in Bula.
The New MASSBA system, costing P205.46 million, irrigates over 1,200 hectares and helps more than 1,100 farmers. The San Agustin–San Ramon project, worth P126.7 million, serves more than 500 hectares and over 700 farmers.
DAR said the solar-powered pumps will cut fuel costs, which previously reached as much as P450,000 per month for the Bula cooperative, allowing farmers to spend more on seeds, fertilizers, and other farm improvements. The projects also provide a reliable water supply, helping farmers maintain production even during dry months.
This initiative is part of the government’s effort to make farming more sustainable and affordable amid rising fuel prices.
