San Isidro, Lupao, Nueva Ecija
December 13, 2023

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the inauguration of the Balbalungao Small Reservoir Irrigation Project (BSRIP) at Barangay San Isidro in Lupao, Nueva Ecija.

Constructed through the collective efforts of the Department of Agriculture (DA) and National Irrigation Administration (NIA), the President highlighted the Project’s role in fortifying rice productivity in Nueva Ecija, which is often dubbed as the ‘Rice Bowl of the Philippines’.

“It also shows this Administration’s steadfast commitment to develop modern infrastructure systems that will enhance our agriculture sector,” he said.

The Chief Executive emphasized the multifaceted benefits of the Project, including the generation of diversified income opportunities through increased crop yields, fish culture, tourism and watershed management for environmental protection.

The BSRIP is strategically designed to facilitate hydroelectric power generation, while concurrently serving as a crucial flood control and mitigation infrastructure for the communities along the Balbalungao River.

To this end, President Marcos Jr. enjoined all government agencies, local government units (LGUs) and the private sector to coordinate efforts aimed at ensuring the sustainability of water resources and the ecosystem surrounding the reservoir. He likewise assured them of the Administration’s steadfast commitment to the pursuit of food security, poverty reduction, and economic growth.

He further stated that the Project is crucial for the country, as it prepares to counter the effects of the El Niño crisis, which is expected to last until the second quarter of 2024.

“As we envision a more secure, sustainable and resilient Philippines, let us harmonize our efforts in ensuring the continued empowerment of our producers, progress of our industries and advancement of the entire nation,” the President concluded in his speech.

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