Marcos leads groundbreaking of Pangasinan dam

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos led the groundbreaking of the Lower Agno River Irrigation System (LARIS) Paitan Dam and turnover of P370 million worth of farm machinery, equipment and solar-powered irrigation projects in Santa Maria, Pangasinan yesterday.

The LARIS Paitan Dam will harness resources of the Agno River, one of the country’s largest river systems, to provide consistent and sustainable irrigation to farmlands in Pangasinan, Tarlac and Nueva Ecija.

“I hope it will be completed by 2027 or earlier if possible, so our countrymen can immediately feel the benefits of the LARIS Paitan Dam,” Marcos said in his speech.

Once completed, Marcos said the dam would provide irrigation to more than 12,000 hectares of agricultural lands.

“Having water – whether during summer or rainy season – is no longer a dream. A bountiful harvest is now within reach,” Marcos said.

He said the dam would boost rice production and increase the income of farmers.

During the ceremony, 7,645 agrarian reform beneficiaries and 292 ARB organizations received support packages, including organic plant supplements, tractors and multipurpose power stations.

Up to 11 solar-powered irrigation systems were handed over to communities in various areas of Pangasinan.

The irrigation system will provide clean, efficient and low-maintenance solution for off-grid farming areas.

“It can be used to water farmlands even without electricity – more cost-effective, and won’t harm the environment,” Marcos said.

The President was joined by Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III, National Irrigation Administration chief Eduardo Guillen and Pangasinan Gov. Ramon Guico.