One Meralco Foundation (OMF), the corporate social responsibility arm of Manila Electric Co. (Meralco), has introduced solar-powered mobile irrigation pumps to benefit 140 farmers in Nueva Ecija, providing them with a sustainable and cost-effective irrigation solution.
The initiative, a first of its kind for OMF, supports Lupao Pag-ahon Agriculture Cooperative and Nueva Ecija Rice, Corn, Vegetable and Livestock Raisers Multi-Purpose Cooperative (NERCOVELIR), helping them reduce reliance on costly diesel-powered pumps while ensuring a stable water supply for their crops, particularly during drought conditions such as El Niño.
Nueva Ecija, often referred to as the Rice Granary of the Philippines, faces recurring water shortages that threaten agricultural production. Many farmers, particularly in Lupao, source their irrigation water from deep wells, requiring diesel-powered pumps that cost around P12,000 per cropping season in fuel expenses. The financial burden, coupled with unpredictable water access, has significantly affected productivity and profitability.
“Our income as farmers has increased, especially since we no longer have to spend as much on fuel. Our other members also no longer worry when their irrigation system breaks down because we can bring the mobile solar irrigation pump to them. This way, their irrigation won’t be delayed, and their crops won’t be stressed,” said Henry Ramos, Secretary of Lupao Pag-ahon Agriculture Cooperative.
By transitioning to solar-powered irrigation, farmers now have a renewable and sustainable solution that eliminates fuel costs, minimizes environmental impact, and ensures an uninterrupted water supply for their farmlands.
Meralco Senior Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer Ferdinand O. Geluz said this pioneering initiative underscores how OMF integrates innovation, sustainability, and community empowerment into its initiatives.
“Through this project, we are reviving the true spirit of bayanihan (community cooperation). Together, we are shaping a future where sustainability helps ensure the continuous growth of the agricultural sector—not just for today, but for future generations as well,” said Geluz, who also serves as an OMF trustee.
This initiative was made possible through the Meralco Employees Fund for Charity, Inc., alongside Meralco’s Customer Retail Services (CRS) group, which annually raises funds to support communities in need.
OMF President Jeffrey O. Tarayao emphasized the critical role of electrification and sustainability in improving food security, stating that the foundation is dedicated to helping agricultural communities thrive.
“Rice, vegetables, and other produce are essential in most Filipino households, yet we often overlook the hardships our farmers endure every day to ensure we have these basic needs on our tables. By providing sustainable solutions for our farmers, we not only improve their productivity and efficiency but also ultimately contribute to food security and economic development. These projects foster innovation and cooperation that will help agricultural communities to thrive,” Tarayao said.
The solar-powered irrigation project is part of OMF’s Agriculture and Livelihood Electrification program, which falls under its broader Electrification for Development portfolio. This initiative includes the deployment of solar power solutions for schools, water access points, and rural health centers in off-grid communities across the Philippines.
To date, OMF has energized 304 schools, six rural health centers, four water access facilities, and seven agricultural and livelihood programs through sustainable energy projects. These initiatives align with global sustainability goals and the national push for inclusive growth, ensuring that the benefits of electrification reach the communities that need them the most.
OMF continues to explore new electrification projects that can further enhance agricultural productivity, improve access to clean water, and support underserved communities. With the looming impact of El Niño and climate change, the foundation aims to expand its reach, providing more farming cooperatives with access to renewable and sustainable energy solutions.
What impact do you think solar-powered irrigation will have on Nueva Ecija’s farming communities? Share your insights in the comments below, and follow Power Philippines for more updates on sustainable energy initiatives and agricultural electrification!
There are no comments
Add yours