Davao City—The City Government of Davao, through the City Agriculturist Office (CAgrO), has successfully completed the second Solar-Powered Irrigation System (SPIS) in Barangay Malabog, Paquibato District, further strengthening the city’s agricultural infrastructure.
The newly completed SPIS is part of the local government’s ongoing initiative to enhance agricultural productivity. Funded by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), the project aims to provide farmers with a sustainable and climate-friendly irrigation source, particularly in remote areas with limited access to electricity.
According to CAgrO Officer-in-Charge Antonio Obsioma, Paquibato District now has two operational SPIS facilities, with the first located in Barangay Pañalum. Speaking in an interview on the city-owned Davao City Disaster Radio’s (DCDR) Madayaw Program, Obsioma emphasized the importance of these irrigation systems in ensuring a steady water supply for high-value crops such as vegetables and cacao.
“Our primary goal is to provide farmers with an affordable and reliable irrigation source for high-value crops,” Obsioma said. “The SPIS will also help address potential El Niño-related challenges by ensuring a consistent supply of water.”
The latest SPIS will primarily benefit members of the Patag Farmers Association in Malabog, though neighboring farmers may also avail of the irrigation services under the association’s management.
The solar-powered pump is expected to be fully operational by the second week of March, further bolstering the city’s efforts to promote sustainable and resilient farming practices.