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ZPRFIA, NIAEASP Extend Aid to Flood Victims in Kumalarang, ZDS

KUMALARANG, ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR — The Zamboanga Peninsula Regional Federation of Irrigators' Association (ZPRFIA), Inc., in partnership with the NIA Employees Association for Solidarity and Progress (NIAEASP), conducted a relief operation dubbed "Tabang Para sa Kumalarang" on May 27, 2025, bringing much-needed assistance to flood-stricken communities in the municipality of Kumalarang.

A total of 250 bags containing 10 kilos of rice and assorted grocery items were distributed to affected residents of Barangay Gawil, Barangay Diplo, and Barangay Boyugan West -three of the hardest-hit areas during the recent flooding.

The initiative was made possible through the collective effort of the nine (9) Provincial Federations under ZPRFIA, who pooled a total of Php 145,000 in financial assistance to procure the relief goods. This outreach highlights the spirit of #bayaNIAn among IAs and NIA employees, showing solidarity and compassion to fellow citizens in times of disaster.

NIAEASP upskills Utility Workers through Housekeeping NC II Training

PAGADIAN CITY—In celebration of the 38th Founding Anniversary of the NIA Employees Association for Solidarity and Progress (NIAEASP), the NIAEASP Regional Office 9 Chapter conducted a one-day Housekeeping NC II Training on May 26, 2025 at the NIA Training Center with the theme: "Provide Housekeeping Service: Enhancing Skills on Aesthetic Standards of Cleaning in Guest and the Workplace." The event gathered all utility workers of NIA-9 Regional Office, along with selected staff, reinforcing their crucial role in maintaining a professional and welcoming workplace environment. Serving as resource speakers were Mr. Jonathan J. Cuadra, TESDA Trainer and Assessor, and Mr. Ernie U. Etorma, Teacher II of Sominot National High School, who both shared industry-level expertise in cleanliness protocols, aesthetic maintenance, and workplace organization.

Beyond skill enhancement, the training underscored NIAEASP's commitment to professional development and workplace excellence. By investing in the capabilities of its frontline staff, NIA-9 aims to cultivate a culture of cleanliness, efficiency, and service -core values in the agency's pursuit of quality public service delivery.

Dipolog-Polanco IA named as Finalist in the 50th Gawad Saka Awards

PASAY CITY - The Dipolog-Polanco Irrigators Association (DPIA) emerged as one of the top five (5) national finalists for the National Irrigation System (NIS) Category in the 50th Gawad Saka Outstanding Agricultural Achievers, receiving national recognition for their exemplary contributions to the country's agriculture sector.

The awarding ceremony, dubbed "Parangal sa mga Natatanging Magsasaka at Mangingisda," was held on May 26, 2025, at the Philippine Trade Training Center, Pasay City. DPIA, represented by its President Mr. Edgardo Cohena, received a plaque of recognition and a Php 3 million cash award. Mr. Cohena was joined by key representatives from the NIA Region: Supervising Irrigators Development Officer Rosielyn Bayawa, ZDN Irrigation Development Head Alvin Dequito, and IDO Bhelmar Batocael.

Organized by the Department of Agriculture's National Rice Program (DA-NRP) and the Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), the Gawad Saka aims to recognize outstanding individuals and groups who have shown dedication, innovation, and sustained excellence in agriculture and fisheries. This milestone not only brings pride to the people of Zamboanga Peninsula but also serves as an inspiration to other irrigators' associations nationwide striving for excellence in the agri-sector.

NIA boosts collaboration with Buenavista IAs in TSAG Meeting

ZAMBOANGA CITY - Demonstrating its continued dedication to empowering farming communities, the NIA ZAMBASULTA conducted a Turn-out Service Area Group (TSAG) Meeting on May 15, 2025, in Buenavista, Zamboanga City. Led by Acting Manager Engr. Sandra T. Tero, along with NIA's technical and institutional team, the meeting engaged officers from Km. 57 Buenavista Lower IA and Km. 58 Buenavista IA in a productive and solutions-driven dialogue.
Positive exchanges took place as the IAs shared their concerns, including the impact of water overflow from a nearby creek affecting six hectares of rice fields and the need to rehabilitate an old pumphouse. Meanwhile, Km. 58 IA brought up a damaged gate valve on Tank 4. In response, Head of Engineering Unit Engr. Frazzel Hassan proposed a timely and practical solution-constructing an earth canal using a backhoe to enhance drainage and protect the farmlands, demonstrating NIA's commitment to proactive technical support.

Also discussed were updates on IA membership and RSBSA status. Engr. Tero assured that the agency remains fully committed to addressing the IAs' needs, while underscoring the importance of strong partnerships, continuous dialogue, and shared responsibility in advancing sustainable and inclusive irrigation development across the region.

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