Philippines scales up solar irrigation to combat El Niño threat

MANILA — The Philippine government is expanding its use of solar-powered irrigation technology to bolster agricultural resilience amid forecasts of an intensified Super El Niño phenomenon, President Marcos said during a project inauguration in Leyte province on Friday.

Marcos made the announcement while presiding over the opening of the Tugbong Solar Pump Irrigation Project in Barangay Tugbong, Kananga, Leyte. The initiative represents part of broader efforts to strengthen the country's farming sector against prolonged drought conditions anticipated to affect the region through the first quarter of 2027.

The solar-powered irrigation systems are designed to provide farmers with a sustainable, cost-effective water supply independent of grid electricity. By harnessing renewable energy, the projects aim to reduce operational costs while maintaining stable water availability for agricultural lands during dry periods.

The move reflects the administration's strategy to integrate renewable energy solutions with agricultural development, addressing both climate vulnerabilities and long-term food security concerns facing the agricultural sector.