FOR REHABILITATION. One of the irrigation structures in the Calabarzon Region destroyed during the onslaught of Typhoon Aghon on May 25 and 26, 2024. The National Irrigation Administration placed the damage to irrigation in the region at some PHP200 million. (Photo courtesy of NIA-Calabarzon)
CALAMBA CITY, Laguna – The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) reported that Typhoon Aghon caused an estimated PHP200.3 million worth of damage to irrigation systems in the five-province Calabarzon region, directly impacting some 6,015 hectares of agricultural land.
In a phone interview on Tuesday, NIA-Calabarzon senior engineer Precious Palacol said about PHP55.3 million will repair damage to irrigation canals, protection works, canal structures and dams.
An additional PHP145 million will be needed for comprehensive repairs aimed at ensuring the long-term stability of irrigation structures, she added.
According to Palacol, the budget request has been forwarded to the NIA Central Office. The funding is expected to be drawn from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council’s coffers.
She also reported that immediate efforts to clear debris along the irrigation canals have been initiated and NIA-Calabarzon is collaborating with local government units and relevant agencies to extend support and assistance to the 6,569 farmers directly affected by the typhoon.
"NIA Calabarzon remains steadfast in its commitment to rehabilitating and enhancing irrigation infrastructure to withstand future weather events. This involves both upgrading existing systems and implementing more resilient designs," Palacol said. (PNA)
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