Davao City has taken a significant step towards enhancing agricultural productivity with the inauguration of its first Solar-Powered Irrigation System (SPIS) in Pañalum, Paquibato District. Spearheaded by the City Government of Davao through the City Agriculturist Office (CAgrO), the initiative aims to provide a sustainable water source for local farmers.
Gilbert Iglesias, Head of CAgrO’s Programs and Project Management Section under the Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Division, confirmed that the SPIS is the first and only solar-powered irrigation project in the city. The system operates by utilizing solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity, which powers submersible pumps to irrigate farms.
According to Iglesias, approximately 10 hectares of farmland in Paquibato are expected to benefit from the SPIS. The project, which cost P1.4 million, was completed on September 7, 2024, and will directly support over 30 farmers in the area.
In addition to the Pañalum installation, another SPIS project is currently underway in Barangay Malabog, also in Paquibato District. This second project, valued at P2.1 million, is part of the “Upscaling Agricultural Support in Vulnerable Production Areas in Davao City” initiative. Funded through the Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Fund for 2024, the Malabog SPIS is now 80 percent complete and is expected to be operational by February this year.
The city government remains committed to supporting local farmers by investing in sustainable agricultural solutions. These solar-powered irrigation systems are anticipated to enhance water accessibility, improve crop yields, and contribute to long-term food security in Davao City.
