Cotabato City, October 25, 2024 — The Bangsamoro Parliament’s Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform Committee convened on Friday to review Parliament Bill No. 42, also known as the Bangsamoro Irrigation Act, aimed at expanding irrigated lands and supporting local farmers and marginalized fisherfolk in the region.
The committee received an overview from the Policy Research and Legal Services on the Malitubog-Maridagao Irrigation Project, the largest operational irrigation system in Bangsamoro. Covering 9,528 hectares, the project spans the municipalities of Pikit, Aleosan, Pagalungan, and Datu Montawal, drawing from the waters of the Maridagao River to support local agricultural needs.
Committee Chair Matarul Estino expressed optimism about the bill, highlighting the critical role of effective irrigation in boosting agricultural productivity. “Expanding access to irrigation is foundational to improving agricultural yields and empowering farmers and fisherfolk across Bangsamoro,” Estino said.
In a step toward ensuring the timely passage of the Bangsamoro Irrigation Act, the committee has established a technical working group to refine and finalize the bill. This collaborative effort reflects the region’s commitment to advancing sustainable agricultural practices and strengthening local food security.
