By Villamor Visaya Jr
RAMON, Isabela, Nov. 16 (PNA) — The Magat River Irrigation System (MARIS) dam’s operating capacity here would be enhanced soonest as the National Irrigation Administration and SN Aboitiz-Power have started works on raising its operating levels.
Magat River Integrated Irrigation System Operations Manager Mariano G. Dancel shared that with the MARIS optimization project, irrigating the whole service area of 85,000 hectares would be possible in the province and adjacent areas.
The project will increase the storage capacity of the MARIS reservoir primarily for irrigation of farm lands and also provide flexibility for power generation.
Danny de Guzman, Executive Director, SN Aboitiz Power Magat, Inc. said the project has been an example of collective work between NIA and SNAP.
“These collaborative projects are underpinned by not only technical expertise between NIA and SNAP but also the strength of the partnership that we have forged over the past seven years,” he added.
NIA Administrator Florencio F. Padernal said the project is a clear manifestation of a real, effective, efficient private-public partnership.
“Increasing storage water capacity of the MARIS reservoir is laudable as it denotes water security for peaking hours and saves water in cases of abnormal weather condition or in times of crisis as well as increased power generation,” he added. (PNA)