Ilocos region: The Department of Agriculture-Ilocos Region Field Office (DA-FO1) has begun implementing a series of mitigation measures to prepare for the anticipated impacts of the El Ni±o phenomenon. These measures include rigorous validation, continuous monitoring, and proactive information dissemination to inform and support local communities.
According to Philippines News Agency, DA-FO1 project evaluation officer Milagros Dela Cruz outlined the ongoing efforts during a forum on Thursday. These efforts involve the continuous validation of planting targets and per unit monitoring of standing crops. Information dissemination is being conducted through various channels, including social media platforms, radio blogs, and public meetings, to ensure widespread awareness and preparedness.
The DA-FO1's operation center has been activated to coordinate with local government units (LGUs) in assessing and responding to the drought's effects. Regular updates of baseline data, such as static crops and planting and harvesting statuses, are being maintained. Collaboration with the National Irrigation Administration, provincial governments, and LGUs is ongoing to schedule irrigation and identify vulnerable areas.
Efforts are underway for the construction and rehabilitation of small irrigation projects. Furthermore, the DA-FO1 is providing essential resources such as pesticides, pump and engine sets, and solar power irrigation systems to support local agriculture. Interventions, including the provision of rice, corn, and assorted vegetable seeds, as well as drugs and biologics for livestock, are prepared for affected areas.
The Ilocos Region, which encompasses 310,000 hectares of rice plantation for the wet season and 412,000 hectares for the dry and wet planting seasons, is under close observation. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration has reported that El Ni±o conditions are present in the tropical Pacific, with an over 80 percent probability of developing into a full-blown event that could last until early 2027. This phenomenon typically results in below-normal rainfall, increasing the risk of dry spells and drought, although above-normal rainfall may still occur in some areas during the southwest monsoon.
