NIA BBMP-II — On February 26, 2026, the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) conducted a Learning Field Visit and Consultation with Hon. Sherwin T. Gatchalian, Senator of the Philippines and Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, to highlight the progress, challenges, and development plans of major irrigation projects in the Province of Tarlac.
NIA Administrator Engr. Eddie G. Guillen, BBMP-II Acting Project Manager Engr. Randy C. Alipis, Irrigators’ Associations (IAs) from BBMP Phase I and II, Indigenous Peoples (IPs), the Abelling Tribe of San Jose, Tarlac, local government officials, and other stakeholders joined the on-site assessment and dialogue. It aims to strengthen collaboration in the implementation of irrigation projects that support agricultural productivity and food security.
The day began with the safety briefing at the dam site prior to proceeding with the site inspection in Barangay Maamot, followed by the site visit at the Tarlac Diversion Dam in Barangay Tibagan. The delegation also visited the NIA Camp Site in San Jose, Tarlac.
In the afternoon, the team convened at the Jose V. Yap Sports and Recreational Complex in Tarlac City, for the formal program. Administrator Guillen welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of sustained government support and community engagement in the successful implementation of irrigation projects.
A project briefer and audio-visual presentation (AVP) on the Balog-Balog Multipurpose Project Phase II (BBMP-II), including the Balog-Balog Storage Dam and its appurtenant structures, were presented to provide updates on project status and expected benefits to farmers and local communities.
BBMP began in 1977 under an irrigation development plan prepared by NIA. It was approved on February 10, 1988, with a project cost of P2.712 billion funded by an $85-million Italian loan. The construction started in March 1988. However, eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991 severely damaged project facilities and service areas, delaying implementation and leading to the cancellation of Italian funding.
Due to funding constraints, BBMP was implemented in two phases. Phase I restored and improved existing irrigation and built new canals covering 12,475 hectares. However, without a dam or reservoir, water supply from the Moriones and O’Donnell Rivers was insufficient. Thus, NIA pursued Phase II, which includes the Balog-Balog Dam and appurtenant works to provide year-round irrigation to 34,410 hectares, along with flood control, hydropower, and social development programs.
At present, NIA targets the full implementation of the project. The highlights of the program include the interaction, interview, and consultation between Senator Gatchalian and representatives of IAs and the IPs including the Abelling Tribe. This served as a platform for stakeholders to directly convey their concerns, insights, and recommendations. Senator Gatchalian expressed the Senate’s support for priority infrastructure projects that promote inclusive growth, climate resilience, and sustainable water resource management.
The event marked another step towards strengthened partnership among policymakers, implementing agencies, LGUs, and farming communities in advancing irrigation development in Central Luzon. As NIA continues to pursue inclusive and sustainable irrigation development, the support of the legislature and the active participation of stakeholders remain vital in building a more resilient and more food-secure nation.
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