Bohol — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. officially inaugurated the P833.37-million Mabini-Cayacay Small Reservoir Irrigation Project in Bohol on June 22, 2026, marking a significant milestone for the province’s agricultural sector. This new facility is set to provide a reliable, year-round water supply for 530 hectares of farmland, directly benefiting over 700 local farmers across the municipalities of Mabini and Alicia. By drawing water from the Baujanan and Cawasan Creeks, the project ensures that farmers are no longer solely dependent on rainfall for their harvests. This development is expected to drastically increase cropping intensity, allowing local producers to plant up to three times a year.
A Lifeline Against the Dry Spell
The completion of this reservoir comes at a crucial time as the country prepares for the looming threat of the El Niño phenomenon. By stabilizing the water supply, the irrigation system acts as a shield against potential droughts that have historically devastated rice yields in the province. Farmers who were previously restricted to seasonal planting now have the infrastructure to maintain their fields even during drier months. This project is a core component of the administration's broader push to modernize rural farming and ensure food stability for the entire Central Visayas region.
Empowering the Rice Granary
Bohol has long been regarded as a key rice-producing hub, and this project reinforces its status by maximizing the potential of its prime agricultural lands. Beyond rice, the availability of consistent irrigation enables the cultivation of high-value crops, giving farmers more options to improve their household income. The initiative is part of a series of strategic irrigation investments, with other projects like the Bonot-Bonot and Hibale systems also nearing completion. These collective efforts aim to turn Bohol into a more resilient and productive powerhouse for the nation's food security.
Community-Led Stewardship
The success of this infrastructure relies heavily on the local Irrigators' Association, whose members are committed to maintaining the facility for future generations. During the inauguration, local representatives expressed their gratitude, promising to treat the dam as a vital legacy for their children and their community’s prosperity. This sense of ownership ensures that the technical advancements provided by the government translate into long-term, sustainable benefits for the people of Mabini and Alicia. It is a powerful example of how government support and community dedication can work together to transform rural livelihoods.
