Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero has urged the mobilization of irrigation allocations under the 2026 General Appropriations Act to help Ilocos Norte farmers withstand prolonged dry conditions, which is already affecting rice fields and corn areas in Laoag and nearby towns.
In calling on the national government, the veteran legislator cited the P730.9-million allocation for small‑scale irrigation projects and P500 million for upland irrigation systems and small water impounding projects—resources which can reinforce provincial initiatives against El Niño’s impact on agriculture.
According to Ilocos Norte Gov. Cecilia Araneta-Marcos, the provincial government’s initiatives include the implementation of strict water scheduling, clearing of canals, and deployment of additional pumps to sustain crop production amid dwindling water supply.
It will be recalled that Escudero earlier called on the national government to tap the P15‑billion allocation for “Other Priority Programs” under the P30‑billion Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF), which he said could be redirected to irrigation, credit, and productivity projects to provide long‑term support for farmers.
“Bukod sa RCEF mula sa Rice Tariffication Law, may nakalaan na pondo sa GAA para sa maliliit na irigasyon at upland systems na puwedeng gamitin agad para sa mga magsasaka,” Escudero said, stressing that resilience requires both immediate and structural support.
He added: “Ang tunay na tulong ay ang pagbibigay ng kakayahan sa ating mga magsasaka na magpatuloy at kumita pa rin kahit papaano sa gitna ng krisis.”
Escudero said the combination of RCEF and budgeted irrigation projects provides government with concrete options to reinforce local initiatives such as those in Ilocos Norte. He stressed that national funds should complement city‑level measures like water management, crop support, and farmer assistance to ensure food supply stability.