The Capiz, Iloilo, Guimaras, Aklan, Negros Occidental, and Antique Small Water Irrigation System Association (CIGANA SWISA), Inc. from Region VI or Western Visayas visited the Municipality of Itogon on May 6, 2026, to benchmark the town’s rice farming and irrigation system practices.
The visit aimed to strengthen knowledge exchange between the association and LGU Itogon, while providing members with exposure to best practices in irrigation system management, operation and maintenance, and sustainable agricultural development.
Twenty-five members of CIGANA SWISA, led by Regional President Mr. Mabini B. Besiño, were warmly welcomed by Mayor Bernard S. Waclin and SWISA Benguet Chapter President and Municipal Councilor Norberto I. Pacio.
During the program, the Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (ABE) Section of LGU Itogon, led by Engr. Roger P. Catayao together with Engr. Maye P. Saingan, presented the municipality’s irrigation system practices and agricultural projects supporting rice farms in Barangays Tinongdan and Dalupirip.
Among the government-funded projects presented were the Diversion Dam in Balococ and the Communal Irrigation Systems (CISs) located in Baneng-Barat, Binga Riverside, Dekves, and Kelong-Petican-Coog.
Councilor Pacio also led the delegation in a site visitation, where members were able to observe rice farming practices being implemented in the municipality.
Mayor Waclin expressed his gratitude to the visiting delegates for choosing Itogon as one of their benchmark sites, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing among farmers and irrigation associations in improving agricultural productivity and strengthening food security.
