STRENGTHS, OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES OF WEST APAYAO ABULUG IRIGATION SYSTEM-IRRIGATORS ASSOCIATIONS

Authors

  • CYLENE NATIVIDAD NATIONAL IRRIGATION ADMISTRATION Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.64358/jstgpa.v2i2.67

Keywords:

Irrigation Management, Irrigators Association, Agricultural Sustainability, Organizational Performance, Water Resource Management, Capacity Building, Government Assistance, Climate-Related Challenges, Stakeholder Collaboration, Adaptive Management.

Abstract

This study assessed the strengths, opportunities, and challenges of the West Apayao-Abulug Irrigation System–Irrigators Association in relation to irrigation management, organizational performance, and agricultural sustainability. The study employed a descriptive qualitative research design utilizing interviews and documentary analysis among selected association members and key stakeholders. The findings revealed that the association possesses several institutional strengths, including active member participation, strong collaboration among stakeholders, and effective irrigation management practices that contribute to organizational stability and agricultural productivity. The study likewise identified significant opportunities for development, particularly through access to government assistance programs and technical support from the National Irrigation Administration and the Department of Agriculture, the adoption of modern irrigation technologies, and the implementation of capacity-building and training initiatives. Despite these positive attributes, the association continues to encounter several operational and institutional challenges, including limited financial resources, climate-related disruptions affecting water availability, inadequate technical support and equipment, and recurring conflicts in water allocation and distribution among beneficiaries. These issues significantly affect the efficiency, sustainability, and long-term resilience of the irrigation system. The study concludes that sustained government assistance, strengthened institutional partnerships, and the adoption of improved irrigation management strategies are essential to enhance the operational effectiveness, organizational capacity, and long-term sustainability of the Irrigators Association. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the importance of collaborative governance, continuous capacity development, and adaptive management approaches in addressing the emerging challenges confronting irrigation systems and agricultural communities.

 

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Published

2026-06-30

Issue

Vol. 2 No. 2 (2026): Journal of Social Transformation, Governance and Public Administration

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