07/10/2026
Two Irrigatorsโ Associations Hailed as Outstanding Rice Clusters in 51st Gawad Saka Regional Awards
ILOILO CITY โ Two Irrigatorsโ Associations (IAs) supported by the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) were recognized as outstanding rice clusters during the 51st Gawad Saka Regional Awarding Ceremony of the Department of Agriculture (DA) held on October 5, 2026, at Diversion 21 Hotel, Iloilo City.
The LACASAN Irrigatorsโ Association (IA), Inc. of Leganes, Iloilo, emerged as the winner in the National Irrigation System (NIS) Category, while the SERRUCO (BABTESAN) Irrigatorsโ Association, Inc. of Sara, Iloilo, was named the winner in the Communal Irrigation System (CIS) Category for the Rice Cluster award.
Gawad Saka is the DAโs prestigious awards program that recognizes the outstanding achievements and contributions of farmers, fisherfolk, agricultural organizations, and other stakeholders in advancing the countryโs agriculture and fisheries sector.
Both IAs were organized and provided with institutional development support by NIA, including capacity-building and skills enhancement initiatives designed to strengthen their organizational management, leadership, and resilience. Through these interventions, the IAs have developed their capabilities to establish linkages, explore opportunities, and actively participate in agricultural development initiatives.
The awards were received by representatives of the two IAs, together with NIA personnel Engr. Rebecca F. Grana, Engr. Raymond B. Mojares, Zoraida B. Seria, and Liezl Jarangue, who supported and assisted the organizations in their development journey.
Each winning IA received a plaque of recognition and cash assistance amounting to PHP 500,000.00.
The recognition reflects the collective efforts of NIA and its partner IAs in strengthening farmersโ organizations and promoting sustainable agricultural development. It also demonstrates the capacity, resilience, and commitment of irrigatorsโ associations to pursue opportunities that contribute to increased productivity and improved quality of life among farmers.
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