NIA: 60% of irrigation structures damaged by Kristine in Bicol restored
NIA Regional Office V | PHOTO: Facebook page of NIA Region V – Bicol Region
LIGAO CITY – The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) has successfully repaired 60 percent of the irrigation structures in Bicol that were severely damaged by Typhoon “Kristine” (international name: Trami), the agency reported Tuesday.
In a Viber message, NIA Bicol Manager Engr. Gaudencio De Vera told the Inquirer that the repairs amounted to about P900 million.
De Vera added that the remaining unrepaired structures were being addressed with the allocated budget for 2025, ensuring full restoration of the region’s irrigation infrastructure.
In October 2024, “Kristine” hit Bicol and caused widespread flooding, particularly in Camarines Sur and Albay provinces. The typhoon also left more than 20 dead.
In addition to these efforts, the NIA Bicol is continuing to prepare for the potential impacts of weather patterns, particularly extreme weather conditions and the El Niño phenomenon.
De Vera said that with 62,000 hectares of rice fields already irrigated, they were expecting good produce and an abundant harvest in Bicol despite the challenges posed by extreme heat.
NIA is also focused on expanding efforts to ensure water availability for crops despite unpredictable climate conditions, he added.
“We are continuing to excavate rivers to increase water capacity and are closely monitoring potential areas that could be affected,” De Vera said.
He stressed the importance of working closely with the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) to stay informed about weather patterns and better manage water resources.
He mentioned that if the situation worsens, emergency pumps would be provided, and a rotation system for water use implemented to ensure fair distribution across the region’s farms.
De Vera also recommended early planting and early harvesting practices to mitigate the effects of reduced rainfall.
“Based on current assessments from field officers, water levels in rivers remain stable, and irrigation systems are functioning optimally,” he added.
NIA has also requested a three-month weather outlook from Pagasa to ensure preparedness in managing water resources.
