Quezon city: More than PHP63 billion has been allocated for programs aimed at developing the country's irrigation system and advancing agricultural productivity, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced during the 2026 National Irrigation Administration (NIA) - National Confederation of Irrigators Associations (NCIA) General Assembly.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos addressed the numerous challenges faced by the agriculture sector, including climate change, rising production costs, and natural disasters. He emphasized that inefficient and damaged irrigation systems could delay planting schedules and cause instability in farmers' income.

Marcos highlighted that more than 30 percent of irrigable land in the country still lacks access to irrigation. He stated that strengthening food production, promoting farmer welfare, and expanding irrigation remain clear priorities of his administration. The allocated funds will be used to rehabilitate old facilities, repair damaged canals and irrigation systems, and expand irrigation coverage areas.

The President also praised the early completion of the rehabilitation of the Talavera River Super Diversion Canal Siphon in Nueva Ecija, which was finished on February 1, a month ahead of schedule. He emphasized that government policies should align with the needs of farmers and irrigators to be effective.

The General Assembly serves as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and alignment of programs between the government and irrigators' association, supporting the administration's commitment to food security, irrigation modernization, and farmer empowerment.