NIA-DAVAO DEL SUR IMO TURNS OVER IMPROVED BLUCON-ALBATANA CIS TO LOCAL IRRIGATORS 

The Turnover of improved Blucon-Albatana Communal Irrigation System (CIS)

March 23, 2026 

Magsaysay, Davao del Sur - The National Irrigation Administration – Davao del Sur Irrigation Management Office (NIA DDS - IMO) successfully turned over the improved Blucon-Albatana Communal Irrigation System (CIS) to the Albatana Blucon Malabos Communal Irrigator’s Association, Inc. on March 23, 2026, at Magsaysay, Davao del Sur.

Funded under the Repair-CIS CY 2025 program, the project involved the replacement of the sluice gate and the retrofitting of the existing sluice gate shelter. These improvements are expected to enhance water regulation and provide more efficient and reliable irrigation service to 89 farmer-beneficiaries covering a 300-hectare service area, thereby supporting agricultural productivity and sustainable farming operations within the community.

The turnover ceremony was led by Division Manager Engr. Dexter F. Tinapay, who commended the association for its cooperation and highlighted the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining the system and strengthening the partnership with NIA.

"Today marks not a conclusion, but a strategic beginning for the Albatana Blucon Malabos Communal Irrigators’ Association, Inc. While we strive to adapt to modern technology and mechanization, I challenge the leadership and members of this IA to prioritize the maintenance of this infrastructure, specifically through diligent desilting and proactive care during the off-season, to ensure its longevity. NIA remains steadfast in providing the necessary equipment and technical support, but the ultimate success of this irrigation system now rests upon our collective engagement and your enduring passion as farmers." 

- Engr. Dexter F. Tinapay, Division Manager, DDS IMO

The President of the Albatana Blucon Malabos Communal Irrigator’s Association, Inc. expressed his sincere appreciation for the project, highlighting its significance to their farming operations and overall livelihood.

"While our Communal Irrigation System (CIS) strives to be self-reliant and stand on its own, we recognize that our operational strength is significantly amplified through our partnership with NIA. As the IA President, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of our collaboration with them. On behalf of the members and my co-officers, we express our sincerest gratitude to NIA for the successfully implemented replacement of the sluice gate and the retrofitting of the existing sluice gate shelter. We accept these improvements with the commitment to manage them well for the future of our farmers." 

– Mr. Danilo M. Omagtang, IA President

To conclude the turnover ceremony, the IA Vice President also shared his heartfelt gratitude with a hope for future projects therein:

“What is the essence of a canal if its main dam is compromised? Now that our dam has been restored through the implemented project, we can ensure its continuous operation. So, on behalf of all farmers of Blucon-Albatana Irrigators Association, we extend our deepest gratitude to NIA. We remain hopeful that whenever our association faces challenges or seeks improvements, there will be a continued projects that can strengthen and benefit our community.”

 – Mr. Leonido V. Potestas, IA Vice-President

The turnover ceremony underscores National Irrigation Administration’s continued commitment to improving irrigation infrastructure and empowering irrigators’ associations as key partners in agricultural development. Through initiatives such as this, the agency strengthens its mission to promote sustainable farming and enhance the resilience of local farming communities across Davao del Sur and the entire Region XI.

PHOTO DOCUMENTATION:

NIA-Davao del Sur IMO Division Manager Engr. Dexter Tinapay (center) leads the ceremonial turnover of the improved Blucon-Albatana CIS to the Albatana Blucon Malabos IA officers and members.

Turn-over Improve Structures: