BAYOG, ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR - The NIA Zamboanga Sibugay Irrigation Management Office (ZSIMO), led by Acting Division Manager Engr. Maria Gertrudes P. Gania, together with Sibuguey Valley Irrigation System Head Engr. Wilson Cabrales, SWRFT Mr. Agustin B. Hilado, and Engr. Judan Pasculado, paid a courtesy visit to Bayog Mayor Hon. Celso A. Matias on June 10, 2025, at the Municipal Office.
The meeting covered updates on ongoing projects for 2025, proposed irrigation projects for 2026, the NIA-DPWH Convergence Program, and the Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP). Potential irrigable areas were also discussed, with emphasis on supporting the province's goal of rice self- sufficiency. The team introduced the Rice Processing System (RPS) under the DA-PHILMEC Mechanization Program, which provides postharvest equipment such as dryers and milling machines under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF).
NIA reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with local government units to enhance food security and support farmers in rice production and marketing.