Manila, Oct. 13 -- Rice farmers in Polangui, Albay have increased their harvest after the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) installed a Solar Pump Irrigation System (SPIS), giving them a more reliable water supply, particularly during the dry season.

In an interview on Friday, NIA-Bicol spokesperson Ma. Cleofe Baraero said Barangay Itaran farmers produced an average of 60 sacks of palay (unhusked rice) per hectare before the SPIS was installed.

"With the irrigation system providing a more reliable water supply, their harvest has increased to 90 to 100 sacks per hectare, improving productivity and creating opportunities for higher income," she said.

Baraero said the project benefits 22 farmers cultivating 16 hectares under the U...