Fifty farmers from Libon, Albay, benefited from the condonation of PHP2.9 million in unpaid irrigation service fees, the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) reported Friday.

Ma. Cleofe Baraero, NIA-5 spokesperson, said the initiative is part of the ongoing implementation of Republic Act 10969 or the Free Irrigation Service Act (FISA), which provides for the cancellation of unpaid irrigation service fees (ISF), along with all related loans and penalties, for farmers owning no more than eight hectares of land.

“The program aims to erase accumulated irrigation service fees of farmers who use water from the National Irrigation Systems, providing financial relief while helping boost agricultural productivity,” Baraero said in an interview.

She explained that the condonation program began right after FISA was implemented and is ongoing. Farmers with landholdings of eight hectares or less are eligible to apply for the exemption.

“We encourage IA (irrigators associations) members to apply for condonation to write off their ISF dues and receive a certificate of exemption, especially for those with land below the eight-hectare limit. For those owning more than eight hectares, they still need to pay the ISF,” Baraero added.

She encouraged eligible farmers who have not yet availed of the program to visit their nearest NIA office and submit applications with the required documents.

“It is important for them to secure certification because it confirms that they are cleared of irrigation debt with the NIA, especially if they plan to transfer ownership, sell their land, or process related land documents,” the agency said.

The program is expected to continue in other communities across Albay, allowing more farmers to benefit from the irrigation fee condonation. (PNA)