Testing lab for construction materials opens in Pangasinan

URDANETA CITY, PANGASINAN — National Irrigation Administration (NIA)–Region I has inaugurated its Government Testing Laboratory at the NIA Regional Compound in Bayaoas, here, strengthening quality control measures for irrigation and other public infrastructure projects in the Ilocos Region.

The new facility is equipped to conduct comprehensive tests on key construction materials, including soil and soil aggregates, fine and coarse aggregates, hardened concrete, and reinforcing steel bars.

The laboratory will ensure that materials used in government projects meet required safety and performance standards before they are deployed on site.

NIA-Region I Acting Regional Manager Geffrey Catulin explained that the laboratory will help safeguard the structural integrity, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of infrastructure projects by verifying the strength and properties of materials. This is expected to prevent structural failures, reduce costly repairs, and extend the lifespan of irrigation systems and other public works, he added.

The facility operates in accordance with specifications set by NIA, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and other regulatory bodies.

With in-house testing now available in the region, project implementation is also expected to speed up through faster and more reliable material assessment.

The establishment of the testing laboratory highlights NIA Region I’s commitment to delivering durable, high-quality irrigation systems that support agricultural productivity and regional development, in line with its public service campaign under #bayaNIAn sa #BagongPilipinas, Mr. Catulin emphasized. — Artemio A. Dumlao