The implementation of the High Line Canal (HLC) of the Jalaur River Multi-Purpose Project Stage II (JRMP II) continues to move forward as the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) intensifies efforts to complete the remaining works in time for its operation phase by 2028. As one of the infrastructure flagship projects in Western Visayas, JRMP II is expected to strengthen food security, improve agricultural productivity, mitigate flooding within the project area, and help build a more resilient agriculture sector amidst the threats of climate change and water bankruptcy.
The sustained momentum of the HLC construction likewise mirrors the efforts of the NIA in support to the agenda of the national government, under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., to develop reliable and sustainable irrigation infrastructures that will support farmers, strengthen food production and contribute to long-term economic development.
As of September 2026, overall physical accomplishment of the project is at 87.92%. Works in the irrigation component continue to intensify despite recurring challenges posed by intermittent rains which directly affected site accessibility, construction schedules and movements of equipment and materials. The PMO and contractors are proactively working together to monitor site conditions, manage construction activities, and address implementation concerns as they arise. These coordinated and collaborative efforts are intended to minimize delays while ensuring that remaining works are carried out in accordance with established engineering specifications, safety requirements, and quality standards.
The progress of the HLC, specifically the overall completion of the project, is closely monitored by the NIA top management led by Administrator Eddie Guillen and the agency’s Board of Directors headed by Undersecretary Erwin D. Sta. Ana of the Office of the President. Today, both top government leaders and other key officials of the NIA Board of Directors will personally inspect the project sites of the JRMP II during the conduct of the 1032nd Regular NIA Board Meeting in Iloilo City. Such monitoring is imperative in order to witness first-hand the ongoing project implementation, possibly identify potential bottlenecks and ensure that the ongoing construction efforts remain aligned with the project’s objectives. The involvement of the NIA management and the Board of Directors also reflects the agency’s attention to the scale and significance of the undertaking, particularly its role in addressing agricultural water needs in the region.
Barring unforeseen circumstances, the JRMP II is set to be completed by end of December 2027 and full operation by first quarter of 2028. JRMP II is anticipated to provide irrigation water to approximately 31,840 hectares of farmlands in the Province of Iloilo benefitting a total of 25,000 farmers. With reliable irrigation, vulnerability of Ilonggo farmers to irregular rainfall and prolonged dry conditions is expected to be reduced.
As construction progresses, the completion of the High Line Canal represents an important step toward realizing the broader objectives of JRMP II as the “Katuwang sa Kauswagan” or “Partner in Progress.” Its anticipated contribution to irrigation reliability, agricultural productivity, and climate resilience underscores the importance of developing infrastructure that responds to the needs of farmers and rural communities. (Flordalie Padillo)/PN
