NIA AND IRRIGATORS' ASSOCIATIONS STRENGTHEN PARTNERSHIP FOR "GULAYAN SA PATUBIGAN" PROGRAM

The National Irrigation Administration-Iloilo-Guimaras Irrigation Management Office (NIA-IGIMO) and Irrigators' Associations (IAs) (BOCASA-OTON IA, Inc., ANOCA IA Inc., Il Cordova-Tigbauan IA Inc., Bibanab-Tigbauan IA Inc., Banaba-Tigbauan IA Inc., Baroca-Tigbauan IA Inc., and Bocabi-Oton IA Inc.) formalized their commitment to the Gulayan sa Patubigan program through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding.

The event, held on June 24, 2025, at Brgy. Sambaludan, Oton, Iloilo, was graced by key officials, including the staff from the NIA Central Office, headed by Community Development Officer III Ms. Lorna P. Villagonzalo, NIA Region VI Regional Manager A Engr. Jonel B. Borres, NIA-IGIMO Division Manager Engr. Randy C. Alipis, representatives from the Department of Agriculture (DA), and Barangay Officials of Brgy. Sambaludan, highlighting the collaborative support for this initiative.

The "Gulayan sa Patubigan" program is a testament to NIA's dedication to sustainable agricultural practices and community development. By strengthening collaboration with IAs, the partner agencies, and local government units, the program seeks to not only boost agricultural output but also introduce a sense of ownership and shared responsibility among farmers. This partnership also aimed to increase their income and to practice more efficient utilization of the irrigated lands for food production.