What is NIA? A Comprehensive Overview to the National Irrigation Administration

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The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) stands as a pivotal institution in the Philippines, serving as a government-owned and controlled corporation primarily responsible for irrigation development and management in the country. 

This brief overview sets the stage for a detailed exploration of NIA’s history, encompassing its establishment, legislative evolution, and pivotal administrative shifts that have shaped its role in enhancing water resource efficiency for agricultural development in the Philippines. 

As you continue reading, scroll down to discover the rich history and, further below, explore the latest job listings offering unique opportunities to contribute to NIA’s vital functions.

Job Opportunities:

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Each job lets you do something special to help the National Irrigation Administration manage and take care of irrigation systems, like making sure water gets to farms.

Click on the job title to learn more about what each job does and find out how to apply, getting you closer to your next job.

Whether you know a lot about irrigation or just want to help make sure farms have water, NIA has chances for you to grow in your career and do something important.

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Your future in helping farms get the water they need in the Philippines could be just a click away!

History of NIA:

The history of the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) is a narrative of evolution and adaptation, tracing its roots back to its establishment on June 22, 1963, under Republic Act (RA) 3601. 

From its inception, National Irrigation Administration has played a crucial role in the development of efficient water resource management for agricultural purposes. 

Over the years, the agency has undergone significant amendments to its charter, changes in attachment and placement, and even transfers between government departments. 

This comprehensive exploration delves into the nuanced timeline of events, shedding light on the dynamic history and strategic shifts that have shaped the trajectory of the National Irrigation Administration.

The National Irrigation Administration was officially established on June 22, 1963, through the enactment of Republic Act (RA) 3601, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s commitment to efficient water resource management for agricultural development. 

The agency, a government-owned and controlled corporation, holds primary responsibility for irrigation development and management.

Following its creation, the charter of National Irrigation Administration underwent significant amendments through Presidential Decrees (PD) 552 on September 11, 1974, and PD 1702 on July 17, 1980. 

These amendments, aimed at increasing capitalization and broadening the agency’s authority, reflected the evolving needs of the agricultural sector.

NIA’s origins can be traced to the Irrigation Division of the defunct Bureau of Public Works. Initially placed under the Office of the President (OP), subsequent changes in attachment and placement occurred. 

Under PD No. 1 on September 23, 1972, National Irrigation Administration was attached to the Department of Public Works, Transportation, and Communication. 

Despite a dual attachment to both the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) according to the Administrative Code of 1987, operational control remained with DPWH. 

A notable shift occurred with Executive Order No. 22 on September 14, 1992, facilitating the transfer of National Irrigation Administration back to the OP.

In a broader administrative reconfiguration, Executive Order No. 165 on May 5, 2014, transferred National Irrigation Administration, along with other agencies, to the Office of the President, aiming to streamline administrative oversight for increased efficiency. 

Subsequently, on November 3, 2016, a memorandum from the Executive Secretary designated the Secretary of the Office of the Cabinet Secretary as the Acting Chairperson of the National Irrigation Administration Board of Directors, indicating a moment of transitional leadership.

A significant policy shift occurred on April 25, 2022, when President Rodrigo Duterte, through Executive Order No. 168, transferred National Irrigation Administration back to the Department of Agriculture. 

This decision marked a reevaluation of the agency’s role and priorities, emphasizing alignment with the agricultural sector’s development goals. 

This comprehensive timeline underscores the dynamic history and evolution of the National Irrigation Administration, reflecting adjustments made in response to changing agricultural and administrative needs.

Offices and Functions:

Let’s dive into an insightful exploration of the organizational framework within the National Irrigation Administration. 

This overview aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the roles and functions that collectively contribute to the agency’s pivotal mission in irrigation development and management. 

Beginning with a closer examination of the Board of Directors, individuals at the helm steering the organization, we will delve into their responsibilities. 

Subsequently, we will navigate through the transformative impact of the Rationalization Program, a strategic initiative shaping National Irrigation Administration structural evolution. 

Moving forward, we will scrutinize the central office’s strategic directives and the decentralized operations in various field offices, collectively orchestrating National Irrigation Administration commitment to advancing the agricultural landscape of the Philippines. 

As we progress, anticipate a detailed exploration of the offices and functions intricately woven into the National Irrigation Administration operational fabric. Kindly scroll down to uncover the nuanced details of this significant institutional framework.

Board of Directors:

The Board of Directors holds significant authority and responsibility within the National Irrigation Administration.

Composition of the Board:

1. Secretary of the Office of the Cabinet Secretary as Acting Chairman

2. Administrator of National Irrigation Administration as Vice Chairman

3. Director General of the National Economic and Development Authority as Member

4. Secretary of Public Works and Highways as Member

5. President of the National Power Corporation as Member

6. One member from the private sector, appointed by the President of the Philippines on the recommendation of any national rice and corn organization of good standing, serving for a term of four years unless sooner removed.

Designation of Acting Chairperson:

The Secretary of the Office of the Cabinet Secretary was designated Acting Chairperson of the National Irrigation Administration Board of Directors through a Memorandum from the Executive Secretary – Office of the President. 

Prior to this, the Secretary of the Office of the Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization served as Board Chairman.

Powers and Duties Pursuant to PD 552:

1. Formulate and adopt policies for the National Irrigation Administration management and operations.

2. Prescribe, amend, and repeal rules and regulations governing the general business of National Irrigation Administration, subject to the approval of the President.

3. Recommend the appointment of Assistant Administrators, fix their compensation, and recommend suspension or removal by a two-thirds vote of all members.

4. Approve the annual and/or supplemental budget of National Irrigation Administration, subject to the final action of the President.

5. Appoint and fix the compensation of a Board Secretary.

The Rationalization Program in Nia:

The Rationalization Plan (RPlan) for the National Irrigation Administration, authorized under Executive Orders 366 (2004) and 718 (2008), aims to improve service delivery and productivity through office mergers, function streamlining, and the creation of new offices. 

The Internal Audit Service and Irrigation Engineering Center were introduced under the RPlan, and certain functions were decentralized to field offices, with the Irrigation Management Transfer Program as a key component. 

The phased implementation of the Rationalization Plan began in 2008.

Central Office:

The central office is led

by the Administrator, the chief executive officer of the National Irrigation Administration. Supported by a Senior Deputy Administrator and two Deputy Administrators for engineering and operations, as well as administrative and finance, the central office issues guidelines and policies, exercising control over field operations.

Field Offices:

  1. RIO: Regional Irrigation Offices (16):
  • Each headed by a Regional Irrigation Manager (RIM).
  • Responsible for implementing plans, programs, and policies of National Irrigation Administration in the region.
  • Oversees Irrigation Management Offices.
  1. Integrated Irrigation Systems (2):
  • Each headed by an Operations Manager for UPRIIS and MRIIS.
  • Manages two reservoir systems.
  1. IMO: Irrigation Management Offices (51):
  • Each headed by a Division Manager.
  • Responsible for construction, rehabilitation, and operation and maintenance (O&M) plans of irrigation projects.
  • IMOs consist of 40 clustered provinces and 9 district offices.
  • Certain provinces with smaller national irrigation systems are under direct RIO supervision.
  1. PMO: Project Management Offices (15):
  • Each headed by a Project Manager.
  • Implement foreign-assisted national projects and communal irrigation projects.
  • The number of PMOs varies yearly, reporting directly to the Administrator.

As we continue our journey through the National Irrigation Administration, the focus turns to the fundamental pillars guiding its purpose and operations. 

Scroll down to delve into the intricacies of the National Irrigation Administration Vision, Mission, Objectives, and Quality Policy, providing a comprehensive understanding of the agency’s overarching goals and commitment to excellence. 

This exploration will illuminate the core principles driving National Irrigation Administration endeavors and its dedication to fostering sustainable agricultural development in the Philippines.

Mission:

“To plan, construct, operate and maintain irrigation systems consistent with integrated water resource management principles to improve agricultural productivity and increase farmers’ income.”

Vision:

“By 2022, National Irrigation Administration is a professional and efficient irrigation agency contributing to the inclusive growth of the country and in the improvement of the farmers’ quality of life.”

Objectives:

  • To develop and maintain irrigation systems in support of the agricultural program of the government;
  • To provide adequate level of irrigation service on a sustainable basis in partnership with the farmers and local government units;
  • To provide technical assistance to institutions in the development of water resources for irrigation;
  • To improve and sustain the operation of National Irrigation Administration as a viable corporation and service-oriented agency.

Core Values:

“Commitment – Integrity – Professionalism”

Quality Policy:

“We commit to provide efficient, effective, and sustainable irrigation services aimed towards the highest satisfaction of the Filipino farmers.

We strive for the attainment of our strategic themes of Technical and Operational Excellence, and Good Governance through Partnership with the farmers and other relevant interested parties.

We commit to establish programs that prevent work-related injury and ill health, and encourage participation and consultation workers within Agency.

We abide with applicable legal and international requirements, and we remain dedicated to the core values of Commitment, Integrity and Professionalism, to continually improve the National Irrigation Administration Integrated Management System.”

Quality Objectives:

  • Increased Irrigated Areas Contributing to Agricultural Productivity;
  • Attain Satisfaction of Farmers;
  • Improve Planning, Design and Implementation of Irrigation and Multi-purpose Projects to be Climate Change Adaptive;
  • Ensure Efficient and Effective Operation and Maintenance of Irrigation Systems;
  • Improve Budget Utilization and Revenue Generation from non-irrigations sources;
  • Adopt a Results-Based Performance Culture; and
  • Improve Management Information Systems and Processes.

Organizational Structure:

Take a closer look at how things are set up within the National Irrigation Administration. Think of it like a big plan that shows who’s in charge and how different teams work together. 

This simple overview helps you understand the organized way National Irrigation Administration functions, making sure everything runs smoothly to help farms and agriculture in the Philippines. 

As you scroll down, you’ll get a better picture of how each part fits into the whole system. See the image below for a visual representation of National Irrigation Administration organizational structure.

NIA

Now, let’s move on to find the contact details for any questions or inquiries.

Contact Details:

OFFICE OF THE PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND INFORMATION STAFF

Eden Victoria C. Selva  

Department Manager

Email Address:

  • pais@nia.gov.ph
  • niapais@gmail.com
  • contact-us@nia.gov.ph

Telephone Number:

  • (632) 8921-3741
  • (632) 8929-6071 to 79 loc. 113 / 119

Fax Number:

  • (632) 8921-3741
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Chairman: Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr.Email: osec@da.gov.phPhone: (632) 8928-8741 / (632) 8273-2474Alternate: Leocadio S. Sebastian
NATIONAL IRRIGATION ADMINISTRATION
Vice Chairman: Eduardo Eddie G. GuillenEmail: adminoffice@nia.gov.ph / osda@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8922-2795, (632) 8926-4510, (632) 8926-4508Fax: (632) 8926-2846
Corporate Board Secretary: Allan Paul S. SarangayaEmail: board.secretary@nia.gov.ph, boardofdirectorsnia@gmail.comPhone: (632) 8928-8820Fax: (632) 928-8820
NATIONAL POWER CORPORATION
Member: Fernando Martin Y. RoxasEmail: fmyroxas@napocor.gov.phPhone: (632) 8921-3518Fax: (632) 8922-4339Alternate: Melchor P. RidulmeAlternate: Sheryl Solestre-Caballes
NATIONAL ECONOMIC AND DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Member: Arsenio M. BalisacanEmail: OSEC@neda.gov.phPhone: (632) 8631-3716, (632) 8631-3723Fax: (632) 8631-3747Alternate: Roderick M. Planta
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS & HIGHWAYS
Member: Manuel M. BonoanEmail: bonoan.manuel@dpwh.gov.phPhone: (632) 5304-3300Fax: (632) 5304-3300Alternate: Maria Catalina E. Cabral, PhD.
CENTRAL OFFICE
OFFICE OF THE ADMINISTRATOR
Eduardo Eddie G. Guillen (Administrator – Acting)Email: adminoffice@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8928-1280
OFFICE OF THE SENIOR DEPUTY ADMINISTRATOR
Robert C. Suguitan (Senior Deputy Administrator)Email: osda@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8926-2635
OFFICE OF THE CORPORATE BOARD SECRETARY
Allan Paul S. Sarangaya (Corporate Board Secretary)Email: board.secretary@nia.gov.ph; boardofdirectorsnia@gmail.comPhone: (632) 8928-8820
OFFICE OF THE INTERNAL AUDIT SERVICES
Pepito L. Padilla (Department Manager)Email: ias@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8926-2411
Mary Jean E. Estefanio (Division Manager – Acting, Financial and Operations Audit)Email: ias.foad@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8926-2411
Maria Teodora S. Pagalilauan (Division Manager – Acting, Organization and Management Audit)Email: ias.omad@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8926-2411
OFFICE OF THE CORPORATE PLANNING SERVICES
Reynaldo D. Nilo (Officer-in-Charge)Email: cps@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8926-5896
Patrick R. Rillon (Division Manager – Acting, Planning and Programming)Email: cps.ppd@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8926-2076
Sussie T. Taniegra (Division Manager, Management Information)Email: cps.mid@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8927-0916, (632) 8926-5896
Reynaldo D. Nilo (Division Manager – Acting, Management Services – interim)Email: cps.msd@nia.gov.ph; nia.msdcorplan@gmail.comPhone: (632) 8926-2076
OFFICE OF THE LEGAL SERVICES
Rizza A. Ibañez (Department Manager – Acting)Email: legal@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8926-2566
OFFICE OF THE PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND INFORMATION STAFF
Eden Victoria C. Selva (Department Manager)Email: pais@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8921-3741, (632) 8929-6071 to 79 loc. 113 / 119
OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY ADMINISTRATOR FOR ENGINEERING AND OPERATIONS
Josephine B. Salazar (Officer-in-Charge)Email: deputy.eos@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8928-9311
ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Reyne B. Ugay (Department Manager – Acting)Email: ed@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8926-7678
Ferdinand G. Sales (Division Manager – Acting, Construction Management)Email: ed.cmd@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8925-4614
Emilio M. Domagas, Jr. (Division Manager – Acting, Design and Specifications)Email: ed.dsd@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8921-0018, (632) 8929-8944
Hanziel Nonilon U. De Guzman (Division Manager – Acting, Project Planning)Email: ed.ppd@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8926-7678
OPERATIONS DEPARTMENT
Eusebio S. Villamanto (Department Manager – Acting)Email: od@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8928-4130, (632) 8925-3207
Martin T. Tacloban (Division Manager – Acting, Institutional Development)Email: od.idd@nia.gov.ph; centralidd@yahoo.comPhone: (632) 8927-7802
Wilhelm S. Tiangco (Division Manager – Acting, Systems Management)Email: od.smd@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8928-4130, (632) 8925-8556
Marcial Gealone, Jr. (Division Manager – Acting, Equipment Management)Email: od.emd@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8928-4254
Luisito Ruel S. San Miguel (Division Manager – Acting, Irrigation Engineering Center)Email: od.iec@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8920-5409
OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY ADMINISTRATOR FOR ADMINISTRATIVE AND FINANCE SECTOR
Robert Victor G. Seares, Jr. (Deputy Administrator)Email: deputy.afs@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8926-2388, (632) 8926-2165
ADMINISTRATIVE DEPARTMENT
Albine Dave V. Jubilado (Department Manager – Acting)Email: ad@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8922-4768, (632) 8926-3169
Portia S. Angulo (Division Manager – Acting, Human Resources)Email: ad.hrd@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8926-1996
Elaine P. Villanueva (Division Manager, Procurement and Property)Email: ad.ppd@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8926-2066, (632) 8926-3169
Lexter G. Cadeliña (Division Manager – Acting, General Services)Email: ad.gsd@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8928-9207
Catherine DC Binag (Medical Officer V, Medical and Dental Services)Email: ad.mds@nia.gov.ph, cdcbinag@yahoo.comPhone: (632) 8928-4642
Lexter G. Cadeliña (Acting Head, Civil Security Affairs)Email: ad.csa@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8922-4768
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT
Milca B. Cayanga (Department Manager)Email: fmd@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8928-9245, (632) 8922-2474, (632) 8922-2330
Sharilyn A. Bluza (Division Manager, Accounting)Email: fmd.ad@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8928-9245, (632) 8926-9852
Helen T. Laoyan (Division Manager, Budget and Revenue)Email: fmd.brd@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8922-2474
Ramon Wilden C. Selva (Division Manager – Acting, Cash)Email: fmd.cd@nia.gov.phPhone: (632) 8921-3891
REGIONAL OFFICESWEBSITEDIRECTORY
Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR)https://car.nia.gov.ph/Directory
Region 1https://region1.nia.gov.ph/Directory
Region 2https://region2.nia.gov.ph/Directory
MARIIShttps://mariis.nia.gov.ph/Directory
Region 3https://region3.nia.gov.ph/Directory
UPRIIShttps://upriis.nia.gov.ph/Directory
Region 4Ahttps://region4a.nia.gov.ph/Directory
Region 4Bhttps://region4b.nia.gov.ph/Directory
Region 5https://region5.nia.gov.ph/Directory
Region 6https://region6.nia.gov.ph/Directory
Region 7https://region7.nia.gov.ph/Directory
Region 8https://region8.nia.gov.ph/Directory
Region 9https://region9.nia.gov.ph/Directory
Region 10https://region10.nia.gov.ph/Directory
Region 11https://region11.nia.gov.ph/Directory
Region 12https://region12.nia.gov.ph/Directory
CARAGAhttps://caraga.nia.gov.ph/Directory
PROJECTPROJECT MANAGEROFFICE ADDRESSTELEPHONE NUMBER
Chico River Pump Irrigation ProjectReyvelino B. ApongolPalca, Tuao East, Cagayan(0917) 6388-159
Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program – Irrigation Component (CARP-IC)Wilson M. Lopez4/F IEC Building, NIA, EDSA, Diliman, Quezon City(632) 8928-8841
Ilocos Norte-Ilocos Sur-Abra Irrigation Project (INISAIP)Weynard Joseph P. UntalanBrgy. 20 San Pablo, San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte(077) 774-0815
Jalaaur River Multi-Purpose Project Stage II (JRMP-II)Jonel B. BorresBrgy. Tacas, Jaro, Iloilo(6333) 330-8070, (6333) 330-8682, (0919) 309-4545
Lower Agno River Irrigation System Improvement Project (LARISIP)Freddie M. ToqueroTomana East, Rosales, Pangasinan(6375) 582-3188, (6375) 582-7091
Malitubog-Maridagao Irrigation Project – Phase II (MMIP-II)Reynaldo M. SarigumbaVillarica, Midsayap, Cotabato(6364) 229-8843
Tarlac Balog-Balog Multipurpose Project – Phase II (BBMP-II)Rudy P. GonzalesMatatalaib, Tarlac City(6345) 982-0443

Conclusion:

In summary, the National Irrigation Administration has played a pivotal role in the agricultural development of the Philippines since its establishment on June 22, 1963. 

Through a series of legislative acts, amendments, and administrative reconfigurations, the National Irrigation Administration has evolved to meet the dynamic needs of the agricultural sector. 

From its inception under Republic Act 3601 to its recent transfer back to the Department of Agriculture in 2022, the National Irrigation Administration has demonstrated adaptability and commitment to efficient water resource management.

The agency’s history is marked by strategic attachments, transfers, and policy shifts, reflecting a continuous effort to optimize its functions and align with the broader goals of agricultural development. 

The comprehensive timeline highlights the agency’s journey, emphasizing its responsiveness to changing administrative landscapes and agricultural priorities.

If you’re ready to be part of irrigation and farming, National Irrigation Administration is the place to grow your career and truly make a difference. Check out the various job openings—each one lets you contribute to managing, regulating, and enhancing irrigation in different ways. 

Explore the different jobs at National Irrigation Administration, offering a special chance for growth and impact in the always-changing world of agriculture.

Discover the newest job opportunities above this article or through related government agencies. 

Click on job titles to learn more about each role, find application instructions, and get closer to your next career move. 

Whether you’re an experienced professional in agriculture or someone excited to make a positive impact in this dynamic field, National Irrigation Administration offers chances for growth and meaningful contributions.

Grab the opportunity now by exploring the many career possibilities with the National Irrigation Administration. 

Disclaimer:

The Philippine Go does not collect fees and is not a hiring agency, nor is it related to any hiring agency for employment abroad. 

All information contained here is solely for informational purposes and rightfully belongs to its rightful owner. 

Attached in the last section of the content are references for further verification, if needed. Read more

Reference:

1. Wikipedia contributors. (n.d.). National Irrigation Administration. In Wikipedia. Retrieved 2023, from [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Irrigation_Administration]

2. National Irrigation Administration. (n.d.). Overview. Retrieved 2023, from [https://nia.gov.ph/content/overview]

3. National Irrigation Administration. (n.d.). Offices and Functions. Retrieved 2023, from [https://nia.gov.ph/content/offices-and-functions]

4. National Irrigation Administration. (n.d.). Vision, Mission, Objectives, and Quality Policy. Retrieved 2023, from [https://nia.gov.ph/content/vision-mission-objectives-and-quality-policy]

5. National Irrigation Administration. (n.d.). Organizational Structure. Retrieved 2023, from [https://nia.gov.ph/content/organizational-structure]

6. National Irrigation Administration. (n.d.). Contact Us. Retrieved 2023, from [https://nia.gov.ph/?q=content/contact-us-0]

7. National Irrigation Administration. (n.d.). Board of Directors. Retrieved 2023, from [https://nia.gov.ph/board-of-directors]

8. National Irrigation Administration. (n.d.). Central Office. Retrieved 2023, from [https://www.nia.gov.ph/?q=content/central-office]

9. National Irrigation Administration. (n.d.). Regional Offices. Retrieved 2023, from [https://www.nia.gov.ph/regional-offices-website]

10. National Irrigation Administration. (n.d.). Project Management Office. Retrieved 2023, from [https://www.nia.gov.ph/project-management-office]