27/08/2026
NIA ACIMO Leads Mass Turnover of 10 Irrigation Projects in Albay
More than P335 million worth of irrigation projects were formally turned over to 10 irrigators’ associations (IAs) in the 2nd and 3rd Congressional Districts of Albay during a turnover ceremony held on August 24, 2026.
The projects, implemented by the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Albay-Catanduanes Irrigation Management Office (ACIMO), include the repair and rehabilitation of the Upper Libod Communal Irrigation System (CIS) CY 2025, Tagas-Alcala-Quilicao CIS CY 2025, Marigondon CIS CY 2025, Cagsawa CIS CY 2025, and Cabraran Pequeño CIS CY 2025.
Also included are the construction of augmented Solar Pump Irrigation Projects (SPIPs) at Caratagan CIS, San Agustin CIS, Cabilogan-San Juan RIS, Ipanao SPIP (Cagbacong Pump No. 3), and Itaran SPIP.
The turnover was led by NIA ACIMO IMO Manager Engr. Mark Cloyd G. So, signifying the transition of the irrigation facilities to the respective farmer-beneficiaries for their continued operation, management, and maintenance.
The event was attended by Ako Bicol Party-list Representative Alfredo Garbin Jr.; Mr. Romualdo Elvira, Jr., representative of the Office of the Albay 2nd District Representative; NIA Region V officials, including IDS Chief Ms. Marilou Oatemar; IA Federation President Mr. Melanio B. Bañares Jr.; and other guests and stakeholders.
During the ceremony, IA presidents expressed their gratitude to NIA and the national government for providing reliable irrigation facilities expected to improve water availability, farm productivity, and the livelihood of farming communities through agricultural value-adding projects (AVPs).
A formal awarding of certificates of turnover was also conducted, officially entrusting the management and maintenance of the completed irrigation facilities to the respective irrigators’ associations.
In his message, Engr. So emphasized that the turnover marks not only the completion of the projects but also the beginning of the farmers’ responsibility in ensuring their sustainability. He encouraged the farmer-leaders to properly manage and maintain the facilities and continue working closely with NIA to address operational concerns and preserve the functionality of the irrigation systems.
The mass turnover of the 10 irrigation projects reflects NIA ACIMO’s continuing commitment to providing reliable and sustainable irrigation services, strengthening agricultural productivity, and empowering farming communities across Albay.
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