On May 26, 2025, the serene fields of Tentas, Sara, Iloilo, served as the setting for the field validation of Serruco Irrigators Association (IA) as part of the search for the Most Outstanding IA 2024 under the CARP-IC category. Representing the 11th of 14 participating regions, Serruco IA proudly showcased why they are regarded as the top-performing IA in their region and a strong contender for the most outstanding IA in their island group. This validation marks a significant step in recognizing grassroots excellence through the CARP-IC program, spotlighting IAs that exemplify leadership in agrarian reform and sustainable farming practices.
Serruco IA supports 161 farmer-beneficiaries and operates a productive 241-hectare service area. With its consistent performance in both wet and dry season rice farming, the association has become a model of efficiency, unity, and resilience in the agricultural sector.
The validation was conducted by a team from the CARP-IC Central Office, composed of Engr. Maria Theresa C. Lee (IDD), Ms. Maria Renette J. Basa (IDD), Mr. Joan O. Navarro (IDD), Engr. Leah Pearl O. Santoile Engineering), Ms. Charina Rose A. Valino (AFD), and Ms. Ana Paula E. Caguioa-Estanislao (PMO).
Warmly welcoming the team, IA President Mr. Rodolfo Bingan Jr. proudly shared the association’s unwavering commitment to sustainable agriculture and community empowerment. His message reflected the spirit of bayanihan, which lies at the heart of Serruco’s continued success.
The activity was also graced by key officials led by Engr. Jonel B. Borres, Regional Manager of NIA Region VI, along with Engr. Rebecca F. Grana (EOD Manager), Engr. Randy C. Alipis (Division Manager, Iloilo-Guimaras IMO), Engr. Kervy Ann F. Barlis (CARP-IC Engineering Coordinator), Engr. Lucy Grace B. Improgo (Principal Engineer – Construction Section), Engr. Hector Ace L. Panganiban (Acting Section Chief – Engineering Section), Ms. Joy O. Babiera (Regional IDS), Mr. Harly John P. Pedernilla (CARP IDD Monitor), and Ms. Mary Ann G. Santander (Chief Corporate Accountant). Also in attendance from the Iloilo-Guimaras IMO were Ms. Liezel Jarangue, Engr. Franz Ebron, Engr. Alan Guzman and Engr. Joselito Depalubos.
The inter-agency support was further highlighted by the presence of Ricky P. Sunga, CARPO from PARC Secretariat; Hon. Jon N. Aying, Municipal Mayor of Sara, Iloilo; and Engr. Vicente Mijares, the Municipal Engineer of Sara.
Following the evaluation, a technical inspection of the Serruco Communal Irrigation System (CIS) was conducted by the CARP-IC Engineering Division, with Region VI personnel and representatives from nearby IAs joining the activity—eager to learn from Serruco’s best practices.
As Serruco IA continues to thrive, it stands as a testament to the power of strong leadership, collaborative partnerships, and community-driven innovation—paving the way toward a more empowered and sustainable agricultural future.
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