NIA irrigation water to be realigned

MANILA  -The National Irrigation Administration (NIA), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Water Resource Management Office (WRMO) and Natural Resources and the National Water Resources Board (NWRB) have entered into an agreement to repurpose NIA’s water rights, according to Malacañang.

The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said in a statement that excess irrigation water will now be used for other purposes such as power production, bulk water supply, aquaculture, recreation and tourism, resulting in higher revenues for NIA.

Separately, the NIA said in an email that the NWRB will determine the appropriate use and allocation of all active water permits in consultation with WRMO and NIA, subject to existing laws, rules and regulations.

It said the irrigation requirements of existing farmlands and other irrigable areas programmed for developments should not be compromised in determining the suitable use of irrigation water.

The agency said a legal binding document will govern the disposition of its water rights, taking into consideration the optimum utilization, conservation and protection.

“In case of payments made for the use of water rights and/or facilities, an inappropriate instrument shall be executed by NIA and the parties involved,” it added.

Proceeds will be used for the operation and maintenance of the NIA and the improvement of managing water resources.

For its part, the WRMO is tasked of ensuring strict implementation and compliance with this agreement. INQ