Davao del Norte boosts solar irrigation, readies water trucks for El Niño

The provincial government of Davao del Norte has expanded solar-powered irrigation and water projects in vulnerable municipalities to protect farm output and local water supplies from possible El Niño effects, according to Mindanao Times.

Governor Edwin Jubahib said in a sideline interview on Tuesday, during the Power Forward Mindanao forum at Aria Hotel, that the province has focused on projects tied to farming and community water needs. "We have prioritized projects that directly address agricultural needs and community water security," he said.

Five solar-powered water supply areas are already running: three in Kapalong, one in Santo Tomas and one in San Isidro. Jubahib said motors on operating pumps have been upgraded from 2.5 horsepower to as much as 5 horsepower to increase water output for rice and corn farmers. He added that solar-powered water projects have also been completed in Samal.

Contingency plans include setting up large solar-operated water sources and sending water trucks and tankers to deliver storage tanks to barangays when dry conditions peak. The source describes the tanks as holding 1,000 to 5,000 liters. Jubahib said the approach lets residents draw water from fixed points rather than crowding around tankers.

The governor also said distribution and liquidation under the Local Government Support Fund rice support program are nearly complete. Requests for farm-to-market roads, solar irrigation facilities and potable water systems are in final processing before funds are released for implementation.

Jubahib said the entire province is vulnerable to El Niño, but water supply remains stable despite the rising heat and irrigation is still adequate.