Manila: The government has earmarked around PHP45.67 billion for the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (NDRRMF) under the 2027 National Expenditure Program (NEP) to serve as a fiscal buffer for El Ni±o and other disasters. The proposed NDRRMF for 2027, which is 14.68 percent higher than this year's allocation, aims to strengthen the country's disaster preparedness and resilience, Budget Acting Secretary Kim Robert de Leon said during the presentation of the 2027 NEP to the Senate Finance Committee on Thursday.

According to Philippines News Agency, De Leon stated that the proposed budget could be tapped when existing government resources, such as the Department of Agriculture's (DA) available budget to ensure food and water security, are depleted. He mentioned that the NDRRM Fund is on standby for any possible shortfall that may arise if the regular funding sources under DA are insufficient. This would enhance the government's capacity to prepare for and respond to disasters and extreme weather events.

The existing Risk Resiliency Program, which contains comprehensive data on climate and disaster risks, is essential in determining the specific amount needed for government interventions to mitigate the impact of El Ni±o. De Leon assured the public that the government is ready for the possible effects of El Ni±o, citing the activation of government interventions under the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT) framework to help the agriculture sector prepare early for potential disruptions caused by the phenomenon.

Senator Risa Hontiveros emphasized the importance of early government action amid warnings on the potential severity of El Ni±o, particularly its possible impact on farmers and food security. Hontiveros highlighted the potential food-security implications of adjustments in farmers' planting calendars, noting the need for the government to anticipate the effects of delaying planting by one to two months.

De Leon also mentioned that the government has provided additional funding for agricultural inputs, including support for fertilizer and farmers' fuel requirements, as part of efforts to help the sector adjust to changing weather conditions and planting schedules. Furthermore, the National Food Authority is utilizing its existing budget for rice buffer stocking, while resources from the Department of Public Works and Highways may be allocated to repair or rehabilitate damaged rainwater collection facilities.