07/10/2026
On October 7, 2026, the National Irrigation Administration–Maguindanao Irrigation Management Office (NIA-MIMO) conducted a test run and walk-through of the completed Establishment of Ground Water Pump Irrigation Project (EGPIP)–Solar for the Tambo-Boliok Communal Irrigators Association (CIA), Inc. in Barangay Tambo, Sultan Mastura, Maguindanao del Norte.
The activity aimed to verify the functionality and operational readiness of the newly installed solar-powered irrigation facilities, assess the performance of the completed structures, and ensure that the project is ready to provide supplemental irrigation to its intended service area. The project is part of NIA’s initiatives to strengthen irrigation systems in preparation for the anticipated effects of a Super El Niño, particularly prolonged dry conditions that may affect water availability and agricultural production.
The EGPIP–Solar involved the construction and installation of one unit of solar-powered pump with pump facilities, 205.53 meters of rectangular lined canal and supplemental canal, 87.11 meters of rectangular lined canal, 305 meters of access road, and three canal structures, with a total direct cost of approximately ₱30 million. The project was established to augment the irrigation water supply to the existing 138-hectare Tambo Communal Irrigation System (CIS), benefiting 102 farmer-beneficiaries under the Tambo-Boliok CIA, Inc., led by IA President Mama Ali.
Through the use of solar-powered pumping technology, the project provides an additional and more sustainable source of irrigation water, helping enhance the system’s capacity to maintain water delivery during periods of limited rainfall. It is likewise intended to support farmers in sustaining agricultural activities and mitigating the potential impacts of prolonged dry spells associated with El Niño conditions.
The activity was followed by a short ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the completion of the project. The event was graced by Barangay Chairman Yusop Kasan of Barangay Tambo, MAFAR Municipal Officer representative Bandao Bansilan, Jr., and NIA-MIMO personnel headed by IMO Manager Khomeini Oyod, together with Engr. Badrudin Anayatin, Head of the Construction Unit; Engr. Mohamad Jomar Ali, Head of the IDP Unit; and Engr. Alamin Ali, Head of the Equipment Unit. The activity was also covered by Nhor Gayak of 89.3 Brigada News FM Cotabato City.
The completed EGPIP–Solar underscores NIA-MIMO’s commitment to strengthening irrigation infrastructure and improving the resilience of farming communities against climate-related challenges, particularly the possible impacts of the forthcoming Super El Niño.
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