The National Irrigation Administration Region 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula) has instructed its personnel to implement crop diversification strategies and administrative reforms to cushion farmers from the effects of the El Niño phenomenon.
Engr. June Nathaniel Plaza, NIA-9 regional manager, on Monday urged personnel to take proactive measures to help farmers diversify their food sources and income amid dry conditions.
‘A hero is not always someone in a position of power, but can be any person who helps improve the lives of others,’ Plaza said, urging employees to use their official positions to assist agricultural workers rather than impede their progress.
Under the directive, field officers, particularly irrigator development officers, were tasked with expanding the implementation of the Gulayan sa Palayan initiative and the Kadiwa program.
The measure encourages farming households to cultivate high-value crops along rice field dikes and on available residential lots to supplement their staple crop production.
To improve market access and provide logistical support, Plaza ordered regional teams to coordinate these local planting initiatives with the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) program.
Field personnel were directed to coordinate with local government units to secure transportation assistance, market venues, tents and other supply chain support.
Additionally, the Engineering and Operations Department was directed to incorporate freshwater fishponds into every solar-powered irrigation project across the region.
The aquaculture facilities are intended to provide irrigators’ associations with additional income and a local food source during extended dry spells.
Along with these field interventions, Plaza directed personnel to observe lawful conduct, conduct self-assessments and deliver public services promptly.