ALFONSO LISTA, Ifugao — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said the newly inaugurated ₱1.49-billion Alfonso Lista Pump Irrigation System (ALPIS) is expected to increase annual rice production from 900 to 26,000 metric tons and raise farmers’ income from ₱16 million to ₱159 million.

Marcos led the inauguration of the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) project in Barangay Sto. Domingo on October 26, marking the completion of a multi-year initiative intended to expand irrigated farmland and strengthen agricultural productivity in the municipality.

“Dahil sa sakripisyo, tiyaga, at pagod ng ating mga magsasaka, nakakakain ang buong Pilipinas. Kaya patuloy nating inaalam kung paano pa natin sila matutulungan,” Marcos said, emphasizing the importance of supporting farmers.

He added that irrigation projects have become increasingly important as the country braces for the effects of the projected “Super El Niño.”

The ₱1,493,705,989.18 project, which began planning and implementation in 2012, was completed on October 7, following delays caused by funding adjustments and requirements, including securing Free, Prior, and Informed Consent from indigenous communities.

The system draws water from Magat Dam and distributes it to agricultural lands through pumping facilities, conveyance systems, main and lateral canals, canal structures, and service roads.

According to the project details, the irrigation system will expand irrigated farmland from 275 hectares to 2,300 hectares, benefiting 1,315 farmers from four barangays: Calupaan, Sto. Domingo, Namillangan, and Namnama.

NIA Administrator Eddie Guillen underscored the role of irrigation in protecting farmers’ livelihoods and ensuring food security. He urged beneficiaries to maintain and safeguard the facilities, stressing the importance of responsible water management.

Ifugao Governor Jerry Dalipog thanked the President for supporting the province’s agriculture sector, describing the project as an investment in food security, farmer empowerment, and increased agricultural production.

Farmer-beneficiaries also welcomed the project, saying it would reduce production costs, particularly expenses for fuel used in operating water pumps.

Nonilon Guingahan, president of the Namnaman Balingan Irrigators’ Association, and Danio Toribio of the Namillangan-Galibaca Irrigators’ Association said the reliable water supply would allow farmers to prepare their fields earlier and plant rice twice a year without waiting for the rainy season.

The government expects the expanded irrigation coverage and improved water access to boost rice production and increase farmers’ earnings, strengthening local food security and agricultural resilience.