To ensure reliable water supply for the upcoming planting season, the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) in Western Visayas has implemented the annual closure of 15 major river irrigation systems (RIS) and dams across the region for much-needed repair and maintenance work. The shutdown, which began on March 15, is scheduled to last until May 1 — just in time for farmers to prepare their fields for the first cropping season that typically starts in May or June.

Sornito, I. (2025, April 29). 15 dams in WV temporarily shut down for maintenance ahead of May cropping season. Panay News, p. 2.