Marcos to NIA: Finish delayed water projects
President Marcos Jr. directed the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) on Wednesday to complete irrigation projects that have been plagued by delays in recent years, as he pledged adequate funding to advance the agency’s programs.
In a meeting with NIA officials at Malacañang, the President cited the challenges plaguing several key projects and emphasized the need for accountability and swift action to ensure timely completion.
“The big dams, we need to have those completed,” Marcos said, as he stressed the importance of large-scale infrastructure not only for irrigation but also for flood control, water supply and energy generation.
Among the high-profile projects discussed was the Balog-Balog Multipurpose Project Phase II in Tarlac, which has faced decades of delays due to funding constraints and logistical challenges.
The project, touted to irrigate thousands of hectares of farmland, was allotted P2.49 billion under the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA).
Initiated during the administration of former President Corazon Aquino more than five decades ago, the Balog-Balog project has faced endless delays and budget escalations.
As of December 2023, NIA reported a 50 percent completion rate, which was disputed by Senator Raffy Tulfo, who cited evidence suggesting less progress.
Read: Tulfo wants contractors’ names in delayed irrigation project in Tarlac
The Ilocos Norte-Ilocos Sur-Abra Irrigation Project (INISAIP) Stage 2, which was allocated with P7.88 billion for 2025, has also been flagged for slow progress, raising concerns about the overall efficiency of NIA’s project implementation.
President Marcos stressed the importance of accountability and proper use of taxpayer funds.
“The P22.882 billion allocated to NIA under the 2025 GAA must be used wisely. We need to ensure that these projects move forward without unnecessary delays,” he said
“There’s no room for wastage, especially when our farmers are depending on these initiatives,” the President added.
