The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) have committed to strengthening their coordination to fast-track various irrigation and infrastructure projects in Mindanao.

Engr. Dexter Sablaon, NIA-11 acting regional manager, told the Philippine News Agency on Tuesday that they hosted the first-ever Mindanao-wide Assessment and Convergence Meeting with DPWH last week, which was attended by NIA Administrator Eduardo Eddie Guillen.

Sablaon said the two agencies agreed to collaborate on projects aimed at flood mitigation and water management infrastructure, which will be identified and fast-tracked for the benefit of Mindanao farmers.

“This convergence is very important to harmonize our projects and programs,” Sablaon said, noting that teamwork is necessary to better support farmers facing the impacts of climate change.

With NIA as the primary agency for irrigation development, DPWH provides for public infrastructure.

During the meeting, NIA Administrator Guillen assured the readiness of the NIA to implement projects in the Mindanao region.

“You can call our office anytime, and our engineers will present to you the various projects of NIA,” Sablaon quoted Guillen as saying. (PNA)