TARLAC CITY (PIA) — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST), in partnership with the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST), turned over the first solar irrigation trailer unit to Pagbiagan Multi-Purpose Cooperative (PMC) in San Manuel, Tarlac.
DOST Regional Director Julius Caesar Sicat said the deployment of the solar irrigation trailer unit is part of the DOST’s Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) initiative with a goal to empower different sectors of Central Luzon by introducing solutions anchored in science, technology, and innovation.
“Alam naman natin na tumataas ang presyo ng inputs of production sa agrikultura, particularly iyong krudo para sa mga pumping systems, kaya naisip natin na bakit hindi natin gamitin ang enerhiya ng araw upang magpatakbo ng solar pumping units at matulungan ang ating mga magsasaka na makapag-provide ng irrigation water with almost zero expense. (We all know that the cost of agricultural inputs is increasing, particularly fuel for pumping systems, so we thought, why not use solar energy to run pumping units and help our farmers provide irrigation water with almost zero expense),” he said.
Additionally, NEUST President Rhodora Jugo said the project aims to improve irrigation accessibility, increase crop yield, strengthen and enhance food security, promote the use of renewable energy, and mitigate the environmental impact of traditional irrigation systems.
She added that the unit deployed in San Manuel, Tarlac is the first, and 13 more are to be deployed in different provinces of Central Luzon.
“Napakarami pong mabebenipisyuhan ng proyektong ito. Mayroong limang lalawigan sa Central Luzon ang magbebenefit dito. Ang provinces of Aurora, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, at Pampanga.(Many will benefit from this project. Five provinces in Central Luzon will benefit from it. The provinces of Aurora, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, and Pampanga),” Jugo explained.
PMC Chairperson Eulogio Cabiles extended his gratitude on behalf of the cooperative, emphasizing the helpfulness of the unit, especially with the growing costs in farming.
The cooperative will take good care of the solar irrigation trailer and put to good use the support that DOST and NEUST have given them. (CLJD/AJRR, PIA Region 3-Tarlac)
