Manila, Feb. 24 -- More than PHP63 billion has been allocated for programs aimed at developing the country's irrigation system and advancing agricultural productivity, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said Tuesday.

During the 2026 National Irrigation Administration (NIA) - National Confederation of Irrigators Associations (NCIA) General Assembly, Marcos cited the many challenges faced by the agriculture sector, including climate change, rising production costs, and natural disasters.

Marcos acknowledged that inefficient and damaged irrigation systems could delay the planting schedule and cause instability in farmers' income.

"Batid ko din na lagpas 30 porsyento pa ng mga irrigable land ang kailangan pa natin malagyan ng patubig (I am ...