Tags: Natural Wonders
By Nikka Garriga
QUEZON CITY, METRO MANILA–Typhoon-damaged portions of the world famous Banaue Rice Terraces will soon undergo requisite rehabilitation and upgrading worth P36 million.
The initiative targets to restore 8,700 cubic meters of eroded stone walls and rehabilitate 2.5 kilometers of irrigation system which covers 106 hectares of rice paddies.
Some 25 hectares of watershed will also be reforested, while forest cover in 12 hectares of communal forests–or pinugo–will be increased.
One of the focus areas in the restoration works will be on Batad, Ifugao and will involve three major components–production, extension and agri-infrastructure supports.
The project will require establishing community seed banks and soil and water conservation measures such as nurseries and reforestation efforts.
Its extension support activities include technology demonstration for farm mechanization; establishment of rice-based farming systems; conduct of farmer field schools; strengthening of rural-based organizations; and other related extension activities and training activities.
Besides rehabilitating damaged and abandoned rice terraces, there will be construction of protection walls and cobble stone solar dryers as well as improvements in the irrigation facilities and installing of a hydraulic ram pump.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) is spearheading the multi-agency project and will cover P23.89 million of the said amount after a thorough operational work and financial planning completed last week.
According to DA Cordillera regional technical director Dr. Danilo Daguio, a farm-to-market road component is also being eyed to add for funding to their initiatives of intensifying information, education and campaign activities.
The onslaught of Typhoons Pedring and Quiel last year caused the collapse of about 38 paddies of this National Cultural Treasure in Batad.
Irrigation infrastructures and footpaths were also severely damaged, leading to total losses and damages in crops, livestock and agri-infrastructure at an estimated P872 million.
Besides the DA, the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), provincial and municipal local government officials of Ifugao will also be taking on the project which will begin upon completion of its mechanics.
Related Stories:
Ifugao Rice Terraces need more protection
Ifugaos work together to save rice terraces from soil erosion
Learn more about Sagada as you trek down rice terraces to Bomod-ok Falls
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