(Photo courtesy of PCO)
PAMPLONA, CAGAYAN — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. inaugurated the Pamplona Solar Pump Irrigation Project in Barangay Gattu, Pamplona, Cagayan, on Monday, October 26, 2026, to improve irrigation services and reduce operating costs for local rice farmers.
The project is expected to provide a reliable water supply to 602.63 hectares of rice fields across five barangays, benefiting 307 farmers in the municipality.
The irrigation facility operates through a hybrid system that uses solar-powered pumps and solar panels, with electric pumps serving as backup to maintain water distribution when solar power is insufficient.
The system aims to reduce farmers’ dependence on expensive diesel-powered irrigation equipment while ensuring a more consistent water supply for agricultural production.
According to government estimates, the project could reduce monthly irrigation operating expenses from Php 300,000 to Php 400,000 to approximately Php 50,000 to Php 100,000.
The projected reduction represents potential savings of up to Php 300,000 per month, which could help farmers lower production costs and allocate more resources to agricultural activities.
The improved irrigation system is also expected to support higher rice production by providing farmers with better access to water, particularly during periods of limited rainfall.
The project forms part of the government’s efforts to modernize agricultural infrastructure, promote renewable energy and strengthen food production.
By reducing irrigation expenses and improving water availability, the facility is expected to help protect farmers’ livelihoods and support agricultural productivity in Pamplona and nearby communities.
