New Irrigation Lifeline Transforms Farming in Antique, Unlocks Three Rice Harvests a Year
SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, Antique — A newly completed ₱4.8-million small diversion dam is bringing renewed hope and productivity to farmers in Barangay Alvaniz, enabling them to grow rice three times a year instead of just once.
The irrigation project, built along the Alvaniz River in Patnongon, directly benefits members of the Alvaniz Upland Farmers Association, who previously struggled with limited water supply.
Before the dam’s construction, many farmers were forced to plant rice only during the rainy season — or switch to corn and vegetables that required less water but yielded lower income.
Reliable Water, Bigger Harvests
According to the Department of Agriculture, the 100-meter-long diversion dam can now irrigate around 50 hectares of rice fields, ensuring consistent water flow even during dry months.
Agricultural Program Coordinating Officer Sonie Guanco said the project is expected to dramatically boost both food security and farmer earnings.
With stable irrigation in place, families can now:
✅ Harvest rice up to three times yearly
✅ Secure enough supply for household consumption
✅ Sell surplus produce in local markets
A Boost for Rural Livelihoods
Local farmers say the dam marks a turning point for the community — transforming once water-scarce upland fields into productive farmlands capable of sustaining continuous cultivation.
Officials emphasized that small-scale irrigation projects like this play a major role in strengthening provincial agriculture, especially in areas heavily affected by seasonal droughts.
NPO News Team I PNA-PR
