DA-BSWM Officials Visit DEBESMSCAT for Initial Consultation on Water Impounding Project in Masbate

February 10, 2026 — Officials from the Department of Agriculture–Bureau of Soils and Water Management (DA-BSWM) visited DEBESMSCAT for an initial discussion and consultation on the proposed Small Water Impounding Project (SWIP) dam in Barangay Cabitan.

The consultation focused on exploring ways to address water scarcity and enhance agricultural productivity in Mandaon’s upland areas. The proposed earth-fill dam aims to collect rainwater during the wet season and provide irrigation during dry months, potentially benefiting farmers near the DEBESMSCAT main campus.

DEBESMSCAT officials led by Dr. Arnel B. Millesca, SUC President III, expressed support for the initiative, emphasizing the college’s role in agriculture, research, extension services, and food sustainability in the community.

Further technical studies, environmental assessments, and consultations are expected to follow as the project moves to the next stages of evaluation.