The provincial government of Ilocos Norte is investing around PHP6.9 million for the construction of multi-commodity drying pavements and the rehabilitation of communal irrigation systems to strengthen agricultural productivity and sustain year-round farming amid the El Niño phenomenon.

Chonito Baldovi, representative of the Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Division under the Office of the Governor, confirmed this on Tuesday following the approval of his division’s proposed 2027 budget.

“Under the 20 percent development, a total of PHP6.9 million has been allocated for the construction of six multi-commodity drying pavements and rehabilitation of communal irrigation systems,” Baldovi said, citing these facilities will provide safe and reliable drying areas for rice, corn, peanuts, mungbeans, and other grains.

The funding also aims to improve postharvest facilities and restore irrigation infrastructure, helping farmers reduce crop losses, improve the quality of their produce, and maintain agricultural activities despite prolonged dry conditions.

The construction of multi-commodity drying pavements in the towns of San Nicolas, Solsona, Pasuquin, Vintar, Pasuquin, and the City of Batac will provide farmers with appropriate facilities for drying various agricultural products, while the rehabilitation of communal irrigation systems is expected to improve water distribution and ensure more reliable irrigation for at least 15 hectares farmlands in Barangay Binsang, Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte.

Baldovi said these interventions form part of the province’s efforts to strengthen climate resilience in the agriculture sector and help farming communities cope with changing weather conditions.

By investing in postharvest facilities and irrigation infrastructure, Ilocos Norte aims to protect farmers’ livelihoods, maximize agricultural production, and ensure a more stable food supply throughout the year despite the challenges posed by El Niño. (PNA)