CorDisRDS officially turned over the rehabilitated Kalinga communal irrigation system to the Kutipa Farmers Organization (KFO), a partner people’s organization in Asibanglan, Pinukpuk, Kalinga, on September 6, 2025.
Why was the Project Needed
The project was identified as a priority after a series of typhoons in October–November 2024 severely affected the community. A Damage, Needs, and Capacities Assessment (DNCA) by CorDisRDS and its partners revealed two major problems. Farmers lost their crops, and the communal irrigation system was heavily damaged. Landslides washed out sections of the canal, cutting off the water supply to fields. Without irrigation, it was difficult for farmers to begin a new cropping season.
A beneficiary inspects the irrigation drop box
Community-Led Rehabilitation
The rehabilitation was a collaboration between CorDisRDS staff and the KFO. From planning to completion, the work was guided by flexibility and resourcefulness.
Support came from all sides. The Barangay Captain donated 50 kilograms of rice to sustain the workers. Households contributed rice, vegetables, coffee, sugar, and viand during communal work days (angkas). Every household sent at least one representative. On average, 13 people joined per workday.
A woman beneficiary takes part in hauling sand for the repair of their irrigation system.
Community members work hand in hand to haul materials for their communal irrigation system
The work also showed inclusive participation. Youth, elders, men, and women all joined in hauling materials and working during angkas. Even non-beneficiaries and members from nearby Bakwit, Allaguia, took part. This showed how important the project was to the whole community.
KFO members also helped in canvassing materials to ensure quality. They maximized organizational and personal tools. Despite delays in gasket delivery and differences in gravel quality, the community pushed through. Their resourcefulness was clear. For example, instead of building all nine planned drop boxes, they built four and redirected the excess materials to strengthen the intake box.
Installation of HDPE pipes by community members for their irrigation system
As part of their angkas, community members work together to bury the HDPE pipe for added protection.
Turnover and Policy Drafting
During the turnover ceremony, the KFO not only celebrated the completed project but also drafted a policy for managing and maintaining the rehabilitated system. This step ensures proper care and long-term benefit for the community.
One beneficiary shared: “Haan kamin nga agparigat nga apan isimpa-simpa ken linisan jay irrigation ta adan ti policy ken sigurado nga maaywanan daytoy project tayo.”
(We will no longer struggle to take turns in cleaning the irrigation because we now have a policy, and we are sure this project will be well cared for.)
Another farmer expressed gratitude: “Tatta nga madanuman en dagiti taltalon mi ket sigurado nga makamula kami ken maka-ani kami metlang para iti pamilya mi.”
(Now that our fields have irrigation, we are certain we can plant and harvest for our families.)
Riprap reinforcement marks the repaired portion of the community’s irrigation system (CIS).
Stronger Livelihoods and Future Opportunities
With water restored, farmers are once again confident in planting and harvesting. One farmer has already expanded his rice fields, taking advantage of the reliable water source. The project reduced farmers’ workload and opened opportunities to expand farmland. This strengthens both food security and livelihoods in Asibanglan.
A proud beneficiary poses in her rice field as she begins expanding her ricefields
The turnover closed with words of thanks from the KFO, the Barangay Local Government Unit, and beneficiaries. They expressed deep appreciation to CorDisRDS, partners, and the entire community. Despite challenges in transporting and procuring materials, the project succeeded because of teamwork, perseverance, and solidarity.