The Infrastructure for Rural Productivity Enhancement Sector (InfRES) project has been implemented in 779 municipalities in 41 provinces in the Visayas and Mindanao (Philippines). It aims to reduce poverty through the construction of basic infrastructure – farm to market roads, irrigation and potable water systems – in poor rural areas with high agricultural potential.

The project’s investments in improved irrigation infrastructure have increased agricultural productivity and resulted in higher incomes for the farming communities.

Having access to safe drinking water throughout the day at a convenient distance from their homes,  women in the community now have more time to grow vegetables and raise chickens and hogs, or run small enterprises that provide them with financial independence, while their family’s diet is supplemented with fresh greens and meat, encouraging better health.

The project supported women’s transition from water collection tasks to leadership and engagement in community water management and utilization activities.  For more information press here.