PhilSA, NIA partner to improve irrigation using satellite data

The Philippine Space Agency and the National Irrigation Administration have signed a deal to use satellite data to improve irrigation and water management in the Philippines.

The agreement was signed by PhilSA Director General Gay Jane Perez and NIA Administrator Eduardo Guillen. It aims to use space technology to help plan, build, and monitor irrigation systems. The goal is to manage water better and support farming across the country.

Under the deal, both agencies will work together on research and use satellite data to track water use and irrigation systems. They will also train NIA staff to use these tools. This will help them make faster and better decisions based on data.

The partnership will also create tools that use space data to improve how irrigation systems are managed. These tools are expected to support farmers by helping ensure water is used properly.

After signing the agreement, the agencies plan to create a more detailed plan through another deal that will list specific projects.

The agreement will last for three years and may be extended. Officials said the move supports efforts to improve food supply, manage water resources, and prepare for climate-related challenges.