NIA Central Office – The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) has projected that approximately P220 billion is needed per year to irrigate 1.2 million hectares of farmland to achieve rice sufficiency in the Philippines. During the hearing of the Joint Committee on Murang Pagkain at the House of the Representatives on December 19, 2024, NIA Administrator Engr. Eduardo Eddie G. Guillen emphasized this crucial investment in irrigation sector. As the country faces increasing dependence on rice imports, he highlighted the urgent need for improved irrigation systems to boost palay productivity. Administrator Guillen also pointed out that while the costs for expanding irrigation infrastructure are substantial, they are essential for enhancing agricultural output and reducing the nation's reliance on rice imports. “Our agricultural productivity is really low. So, one key to increasing our productivity level is through irrigation,” the Administrator said. With the right investment, the goal of irrigating 1.2 million hectares could be achieved within the next decade. The Marcos Administration has committed to improving the country’s agricultural sector by expanding irrigation systems, with plans to irrigate at least 45,000 hectares of new farmland this year. Administrator Guillen provided cost breakdowns for various irrigation projects.  Traditional irrigation systems cost approximately P1.2…...

NIA Central Office – To avoid palay losses during typhoon months, and "squeeze in" two rice crops during the dry season, the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) will promote adjusting the traditional rice planting calendar. In recent years, the country has lost an average of 500,000 to 600,000 metric tons (MT) of palay (unmilled rice) annually due to typhoons and floods that mostly occur in September to October when the wet season crop is ready for harvest, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA). "Such volume could be saved if farmers were to plant in October to November, rather than the traditional months of June and July, which could then be harvested in January and February the following year," said NIA Administrator Engr. Eduardo Eddie G. Guillen. "Further, the country could produce more rice if farmers, particularly in irrigated areas, would quickly turn around and plant a second crop that may be harvested in May and June, before the height of the rainy season," he added. "Many of our trained and progressive farmers, who are members of our Irrigators' Associations (IAs) have already been practicing the said 'quick turn around' or QTA technology, that has enabled them to plant and harvest two…...

With the theme “Caring for Soils: Measure, Monitor, Manage”, the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) supports the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and the Department of Agriculture (DA) in celebrating World Soil Day on December 5, 2024. NIA commends the ongoing efforts of FAO and DA in promoting the sustainable management of soil resources, advancing awareness, and driving impactful advocacy for a healthier, more productive environment. Together, let us take meaningful actions toward sustainable soil management to ensure food security for all. #bayaNIAn sa #BagongPilipinas ...

The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) has to date sold a total of 1.14 million kilograms (kg) of rice at P29/kg to tens of thousands of senior citizens, persons with disabilities (PWDs), recipients of 4Ps, and other members of the country's vulnerable sector.The milled rice, packed in 10-kg bags, was sold at P290 each at NIA central office in Quezon City and all other NIA regional offices, where the agency implements the Marcos government's rice contract farming program. "To date, NIA has sold P33.15-million worth of rice to about 114,300 individuals and families nationwide, which is our humble contribution on behalf of President Bongbong Marcos to providing the less fortunate members of our society affordable and quality rice," said NIA Administrator engineer Eduardo Guillen.The P29/kg-rice all came from the 38,000-hectare farms tilled by members of NIA Irrigators' Associations (IAs) nationwide, who are participating in the agency's rice contract farming program this current 2024 wet season cropping. "To date, the NIA contract farms have produced 55,011 metric tons (MT) of palay, and from October 1 to December 30, 2024, these are expected to produce an additional 110,414 MT," added Administrator Guillen. Initially, the harvested areas produced an average yield of more than…...

The National Irrigation Administration (NIA), a key Government-Owned and Controlled Corporation (GOCC), proudly announces the appointment of Atty. Jeffrey G. Gallardo as its new Chairman of the Board. His appointment follows a majority vote by NIA's Board of Directors, marking a new era of leadership for the agency.Joining him is Engr. Cristopher V. Morales, Undersecretary for Rice Industry Development at the Department of Agriculture, as Vice Chairman. Atty. Allan Paul Sarangaya remains the Corporate Board Secretary, while Mr. Robert Victor G. Seares, Jr., Deputy Administrator for Administrative and Finance and Atty. Allan Paul Sarangaya serve as the Compliance Officers in adherence to GCG Memorandum Circular No. 2012-07, the "Code of Corporate Governance for GOCCs."As Chairman, Atty. Gallardo will preside over Board meetings, guide critical decision-making, manage communication between the Board and NIA’s management, and ensure corporate governance standards are upheld. This leadership change comes at a pivotal time, as NIA’s projects align with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s Build Better More program, reinforcing national efforts to strengthen agriculture and food security. NIA’s Board plays an essential role in ensuring governance and accountability, supporting the success of irrigation and rural development initiatives.Atty. Jeffrey G. Gallardo brings with him extensive experience in…...