Marcos to NIA: Respond to farmers’ needs

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos yesterday directed the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) to enhance services to farmers and come up with “immediate action” and “lasting solution” to farming matters that need to be addressed.

During the turnover of NIA-procured equipment and vehicles in Taguig yesterday, Marcos said the irrigation agency should respond quickly to the problems of farmers, whom he described as the “foundation of the nation.”

“If there is a need to fix something in irrigation, there should be an immediate action and a lasting solution,”the President said.

He appealed to NIA personnel to take care of the vehicles and equipment.

Marcos led the turnover of 229 newly procured operations and maintenance equipment as well as vehicles under the third tranche of the NIA refleeting program.

The procurement was in line with Marcos’ directive to fast-track irrigation projects to boost the agriculture sector.

The equipment and vehicles are expected to allow NIA to respond to the demands of irrigation service delivery amid climate change and extreme weather conditions.

The equipment will also enable the irrigation agency to remove siltation and debris from canals, repair damaged structures and transport heavy machinery.