NIA Administrator Engr. Eddie G. Guillen participated in the Regional Development Council (RDC) VI Meeting, which President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. presided over on February 13, 2025, during his visit to Iloilo City.
The meeting underscored the importance of advancing critical infrastructure projects and addressing the region’s development needs. It focused on key projects, including the P19.698-billion Jalaur River Multipurpose Project – Stage II (JRMP-II).
Located in Calinog, Iloilo, JRMP-II is the first large-scale reservoir outside Luzon. As of December 2024, the project recorded an overall physical accomplishment of 76.94 percent. It includes the construction of three dams: a 109-meter-high dam, a 38-meter afterbay dam across the Jalaur River, and a catch dam in the Alibunan River, all of which are substantially completed.
Upon completion by December 2026, JRMP-II is expected to provide year-round irrigation water supply to 9,500 hectares of new irrigable areas and rehabilitate 22,340 hectares of agricultural land in the Province of Iloilo, benefitting 25,000 farmers and their families.
Under the leadership of Administrator Engr. Eddie G. Guillen, NIA fast-tracks the implementation of JRMP-II in adherence to President Marcos’ directive to boost connectivity, economic growth, and disaster resilience in Region VI. As a multipurpose project, the project will also address the need for progress in areas such as agriculture, energy, aquaculture, tourism, and flood mitigation.
With a clear vision for Region VI’s growth, NIA supports the President in reaffirming the government’s commitment to supporting regional development initiatives that enhance the quality of life for all Filipinos.