334 irrigators under TUPAD receive over P4M in wages in Flora, Apayao

Flora, Apayao- The municipality of Flora on August 20, served as the payout venue for the distribution of wages for the 334 irrigators from diverse associations in Apayao who worked under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa mga Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program, Third Tranche.

A total of P4,038,404.00 was disbursed to said irrigators as their wages, with 430 pesos daily wage for the 24-28 days of labor. Most of the work was primarily in clearing and desilting of canals.

The beneficiaries were irrigators of Marimay SRIP’s Sunrise ti Balluyan IA, Marimay Lat. A of Marians IA, Brgy. Allig FIA, and members of WAAIS and Tulbek ti Rang-ay Irrigators Association.

Other beneficiaries who came from other municipalities from the Communal Irrigation System groups include Nabuangan Cupiz IA, Naganakan Maclit FIA, Zumigui Capapayaan IA, Purok Pag-asap Lappa FIA, Sta. Filomena IA, Nueva Kapupugan IA, Anninipan Kapayanan, PADMA FIA, Sitio Panawagan IA, and Isla ti Bukkol IA.

In an interview, NIA Public Relations Officer Engr. Harold Mangoba confirmed the “TUPAD Towards Better Irrigation Service” program is a convergence between DOLE, the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), and the Irrigators’ Associations.

Mangoba said the endeavor continues to serve as the essential support mechanism to strengthen the agricultural sector in Apayao, aiding in bringing ample production.

Flora town Mayor Rodolfo Juan, meantime, conveyed his message, through the Municipal Administrator Ms. Marilou Valdez, saying the livelihood program helped his constituents augment their income.

Juan also expressed thanks for the initiative brought by the concerned government entities.

Moreover, the payout witnessed the presence of notable officials such as Vice Governor and National Confederation President of Irrigators Association Remy N. Albano, Acting Division Manager of NIA AIMO,  Engr. Samuel C. Bahiwag, Flora Vice Mayor Hon. Joefrey Blas, Municipal Administrator Ms. Marilou Valdez Ms. Wilhelmina Quilang from the Office of the Vice President, Ms. Jovie Cristobal from the office of the Congresswoman, DOLE Focal Person Mr. Marcelo Saleo-an Jr.