DIPOLOG CITY, ZAMBOANGA DEL NORTE - The National Irrigation Administration-Zamboanga del Norte Regional Sub-Office (NIA-ZDNRSO) successfully convened its Mid-Year Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Conference alongside the 2nd Quarter Federation Meeting at the City Agriculture Demo Farm in Olingan, Dipolog City on July 22, 2025. It was presided by Acting Manager Engr. Jessreel R. Intic, the event gathered key stakeholders and partner agencies, including Engr. Rogelio Antonio B. Lumo, OIC-Branch Manager of the National Food Authority (NFA) Zamboanga del Sur; Project Development Officer II Davie Jane D. Napuecas, of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Zamboanga del Norte; and Hon. Roseller "Matoy" L. Barinaga, City Councilor of Dipolog City.
A total of 57 Irrigators Association (IA) presidents from across the province participated in the conference, which served as a platform to evaluate the status of irrigation systems and operations with Memorandum Circular Nos. 55 and 101, Series of 2024. A major highlight of the event was the ceremonial turnover of the DSWD Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) check amounting to $1,304,975.00 to Humay Upper Irasan SLPA, Mitunga IA Zero Hunger SLPA, and Bandela SLP Association. The NFA also briefed the status of palay procurement, emphasizing opportunities for farmers to participate in government-supported market programs.
This significant milestone marked the growing and reinforced the importance of inter-agency collaboration with NIA, NFA and DSWD in addressing the livelihood needs of farmers, advancing agricultural development and ensuring food security in the province.