President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday called for the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) to modernize and rehabilitate the Magat Dam.
Speaking at the inauguration of the P65.7 million Cabaruan Solar-Powered Irrigation Project (SPIP) in Quirino, Isabela, President Marcos highlighted the need for updates and suggested incorporating solar technology.
“We’re talking with Administrator Guillen. We’re saying, let’s go back and check the Magat Dam again and see if it’s still possible. Looks like there’s still something needed. Probably needs rehabilitation. Let’s improve it,” President Marcos said.
“Let’s also put this kind of solar panel if it suits so we can modernize all of our facilities.,” he pointed out.
Built in 1975, the Magat Dam irrigates 85,000 hectares in the Cagayan Valley and generates 540 megawatts of hydroelectric power. However, it faces challenges from siltation, sedimentation, illegal logging, and fish caging.
President Marcos praised his father’s decision to build the dam, calling it crucial for agricultural development in the region.
He also urged NIA to explore power generation potential in other irrigation assets to reduce farmers’ costs.
