Bulacan shifts to solar irrigation

On Thursday, January 29, 2026, Senate Finance Committee chairman Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian and National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Administrator Eduardo Guillen inspected irrigation systems and dams in Bulacan province. The visit focused on the potential of renewable energy to reduce electricity costs for farmers.

Inspecting Irrigation Infrastructure

The officials began their inspection at the Kapatiran Solar Pump Irrigation System in Barangay Sampaloc, San Rafael town. They then proceeded to the Bustos Dam in Bustos town and the Bulo Reservoir Irrigation System in San Miguel town to assess their current conditions.

Emphasis on Solar Power

During a dialogue with farmers from San Rafael, Bustos, and San Miguel, Senator Gatchalian highlighted the benefits of transitioning irrigation systems to solar power. He stated, “I saw that solar is good; it’s a big savings, and maybe it’s something that should be pushed further for the entire country. It saves a lot of electricity, and if we save, that’s a big deal for other projects.”

Did You Know? The Kapatiran Irrigators Association (KIA) solar pump benefits six barangays: Sampaloc, Caingin, Capihan, Tambubong, Ulingao and Pinac-Pinacan.

Distinction from DPWH Projects

Senator Gatchalian also noted a key difference between the NIA and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). He stated there were no anomalies or ghost projects within the NIA, unlike what he has observed in the DPWH. He attributed this to the involvement of farmers in all stages of NIA projects, from planning to implementation.

According to the senator, “The farmers know where the projects are going,” making ghost projects less likely to occur.

Addressing Farmer Needs

Senator Gatchalian inquired about additional needs of the farmers beyond the expansion of solar pump irrigation systems. Pablo Angeles, President of the Kapatiran Irrigators Association, indicated that a spare battery for their solar pump would allow for full operation even during the rainy season.

Currently, the solar pumps are effective during daylight hours but lack battery storage for nighttime use. The installation of solar panels has already resulted in significant cost savings, reducing monthly electric bills from P220,000 to P240,000 to P40,000 to P45,000.

Expert Insight: The emphasis on farmer involvement in NIA projects, as highlighted by Senator Gatchalian, suggests a potential model for increasing transparency and accountability in infrastructure development. This approach could mitigate the risk of “ghost projects” by ensuring local oversight and participation.

Impact and Benefits

The Kapatiran Irrigators Association’s solar pump, established in 2021, currently provides irrigation to 243 hectares of farmland and benefits approximately 213 farmers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What areas were inspected during the visit?

Senator Gatchalian and Administrator Guillen inspected the Kapatiran Solar Pump Irrigation System in Barangay Sampaloc, San Rafael town, the Bustos Dam in Bustos town, and the Bulo Reservoir Irrigation System in San Miguel town.

What did Senator Gatchalian say about solar power?

Senator Gatchalian stated that solar power is a “big savings” and suggested it should be considered for implementation throughout the country to reduce electricity costs.

What was identified as a need for the Kapatiran Irrigators Association?

Kapatiran Irrigators Association President Pablo Angeles stated that a spare battery is needed for their solar pump to ensure full operation during the rainy season.

As renewable energy solutions continue to be explored for agricultural applications, what role might community involvement play in ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of these projects?