MMSU's solar-powered pump boosts agri-production

 It is also part of the National Irrigation Administration's (NIA) long-term initiative to replace outdated and expensive diesel-powered pumps with more reliable green energy-efficient systems. NIA turned over the solar-powered pump, which is part of its Solar Pump Irrigation projects, to MMSU on March 27 at the university's agricultural land on the Batac Campus in the City of Batac. The system includes solar panels, pumps, electronic controllers, storage tanks and conveyor systems, all of which work together to provide an efficient and reliable water supply for crops. According to Jesslyn Keith Valite of the MMSU Office of Strategic Communication, "by adopting solar power, NIA aims to alleviate the financial strain on farmers while also promoting sustainable practices that protect the environment."

MMSU President Virgilio Julius Manzano Jr. said that the partnership "is invaluable for providing our students with a real-world laboratory experience."

NIA Administrator Eddie Guillen also reflected on the importance of the project, emphasizing its potential to "transform the agricultural landscape and achieve sustainability in the field." NIA pledged to install another solar-powered pump at the MMSU Dingras Campus in Dingras town as part of the signed memorandum of agreement. This expansion will enable the two institutions to reach more farming communities.

Also participating in the event were Nathaniel Alibuyog, MMSU vice president; Dionisio Bucao, research director; Robert Suguitan, NIA senior deputy administrator; and Joselito De Vera, Ilocos Norte irrigation manager.