MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon – A P20-million solar-powered irrigation project is set to breathe new life into the once-thriving vegetable farms of Barangay Managok in Malaybalay City, a key supplier of highland crops to Metro Manila and neighboring provinces. The initiative, funded through the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) National Irrigation Administration (NIA), will provide reliable water to over 200 hectares of farmland, addressing chronic dry-season shortages that have slashed production in recent years.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. led the groundbreaking on December 23, 2025, alongside NIA Administrator Eddie Guillen and local officials. “This solar irrigation system will ensure year-round farming in Managok, restoring Bukidnon’s status as the vegetable basket of Mindanao,” Laurel said, noting the project’s alignment with food security goals amid climate challenges.
Project Highlights
- Capacity: Solar pumps capable of irrigating 250 hectares (initial phase 200 ha).
- Technology: Fully solar-powered, zero operational cost for farmers.
- Beneficiaries: ~500 farmer families in Managok and adjacent barangays.
- Timeline: Completion targeted for mid-2026.
- Crops Boosted: Potatoes, carrots, cabbage, broccoli—staples for Cagayan de Oro and Manila markets.
The site in Managok was historically one of Bukidnon’s most productive vegetable zones until prolonged dry spells and outdated irrigation forced many farmers to abandon fields or shift to less profitable crops. Local farmer cooperative leader Ramon Salcedo expressed optimism: “With steady water, we can plant twice a year again and supply markets consistently.”
This project is part of DA’s broader push for climate-resilient agriculture, with similar solar systems planned for other highland areas. It complements ongoing rehabilitation of the nearby Pulangi River irrigation network.
For Bukidnon’s vegetable farmers, this P20-million investment isn’t just infrastructure—it’s revival, putting fresh, affordable produce back on holiday tables and beyond.
Project Snapshot:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Funding | P20 million (DA-NIA) |
| Location | Barangay Managok, Malaybalay City |
| Coverage | 200-250 hectares |
| Power Source | Solar (zero fuel cost) |
| Target Completion | Mid-2026 |