Barangay
Matingkis, located three kilometers south of the city proper,
languished in poverty for many years as farming suffered
due to lack of irrigation water. Residents could only scratch
their heads when pondering alternative livelihoods. Matingkis
was a barangay in the middle of nowhere with only one dirt
road in sight.
This
was until local government officials seriously explored
the area for a water source that could be used to develop
Matingkis. Through the help of the National Irrigation Administration,
local official discovered a natural spring that would forever
change their little barangay. Upon discovering the spring,
the municipal government launched the Matingkis small reservoir
irrigation project, which quickly became the town’s
centerpiece. The municipal government also coordinated with
the Irrigators Association to ensure that local residents
realize the importance of this initiative and maximize the
use of the reservoir.
Today,
at least 300 hectares of farmlands are being irrigated by
this reservoir. Fish cages were constructed, housing tilapia
and prawn fingerlings. The once rain-reliant farmlands of
the four barangays now enjoy increased produce of various
vegetables and other high-value crops.
Farmers
can now engage in organic farming, study crop seasons and
plant other varieties of crops. This in turn increased their
yield to 130 cavans per hectare from 80, and reaped added
returns from new crops they planted.
With
ample supply of water for local farmers, an access road
and a reservoir, the local government not only developed
the agricultural potential of Matingkis but also transformed
it into a tourist spot.
