ZAMBOANGA CITY – The city government has expressed full support for the proposed Pasonanca Small Reservoir Irrigation Project (SRIP) of the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), highlighting its commitment to boosting agriculture and climate-resilient infrastructure in the region.
This was affirmed during the courtesy visit of NIA-9 officials led by Regional Manager June Nathaniel Plaza to Zamboanga City Hall on Thursday, June 10.
Plaza said the proposed SRIP in Pasonanca is currently undergoing a full-blown feasibility study. The multi-purpose project includes the construction of three cascading dams that will provide irrigation, flood control, domestic bulk water supply, hydroelectric power, and aquaculture. These components aim to deliver long-term sustainable benefits to Zamboangueño farmers and nearby communities.
Discussions during the meeting also touched on plans to improve the existing NIA ZamBaSulTa Regional Sub-Office located in Barangay Tumaga and to establish satellite offices in the island provinces. These moves are expected to bring NIA’s services closer to farmers and key stakeholders in the region.
Zamboanga City reiterated its strong support for NIA’s initiatives and committed to backing the donation of land for the construction of a new NIA-9 office in the city to enhance the agency’s operational presence and service delivery.
Plaza and his team assured the city government of their full commitment to support Zamboanga’s development goals, especially in strengthening irrigation and water management systems for upland and agrarian communities.
Also present during the meeting were Engr. Rey Pinatacan, Acting Division Manager for Engineering and Operations; Engr. Sandra Tero, Acting Manager for NIA ZamBaSulTa; Executive Assistant Christine Chua; and other key NIA-9 officials.