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Advocates Philippines
Solar-Powered Irrigation: Romualdez Brings Fresh Hope To Farmers In Quezon-And Beyond
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SARIAYA, QUEZON — Speaker Martin Romualdez had a simple but powerful message for farmers in Barangay Castañas: “Hindi kayo nakakalimutan.”

Standing before local farmers during the inauguration of the ₱50-million Castañas Centro Communal Irrigation System (CIS), Romualdez highlighted something more meaningful than just pipes and pumps—it was a symbol of hope, sustainability, and a brighter future for the next generation.

The project, which now irrigates 50 hectares and supports 33 farmer-families, isn’t your typical government ribbon-cutting affair. Powered by the sun, this irrigation system eliminates the need for costly diesel. According to Romualdez, that’s savings of up to ₱80,000 per cropping season. Not only does it ease the burden on farmers’ wallets, it’s better for the environment, too.

“Mas mura, mas maaasahan, at mas maka-kalikasan,” he proudly shared. It’s a line that drew smiles from the farmers—because it’s not just talk. It’s real help.

Romualdez was quick to point out that these kinds of grassroots, high-impact projects are the exact kind Congress wants to invest in. “Ito ang klase ng mga proyektong inuuna ng Kongreso. Praktikal. Diretso sa tao. Hindi drawing, hindi papel,” he said.
And Sariaya isn’t the only place getting this kind of attention. Romualdez earlier pledged continued support for solar-powered pump irrigation projects (SPIPs) all over the country. These systems are fast to build, cheaper than traditional methods, and already making a difference—just ask the National Irrigation Administration (NIA).

NIA Administrator Eddie Guillen said they’ve already completed about 1,000 SPIPs in 2024, with another 1,000 lined up. To make that happen, Congress significantly boosted NIA’s funding in recent years—proof, Romualdez said, that they’re putting money where it really matters.

“Alam natin ang kahalagahan ng patubig sa produksyon at agrikultura. We’re fully committed to supporting NIA so we can lift up more Filipino farmers,” Romualdez added.

At the heart of all this is a simple idea: give farmers the tools they need, and they’ll grow not just crops—but thriving communities.
Apr 30, 2025
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