Manila:The Department of Agriculture (DA) is ramping up its efforts to mitigate the impact of a potentially severe El Niño, expected to peak early next year, by accelerating irrigation projects and preparing emergency assistance. The DA is coordinating with other government agencies to ensure a comprehensive response.
According to Philippines News Agency, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. highlighted the government's preparedness strategy during a Senate budget hearing. He emphasized the DA's shift towards a coordinated response, allowing agencies to pool resources and deliver assistance tailored to the needs of affected communities.
The DA's plan includes collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to provide cash assistance, food packs, or temporary employment to farmers and fisherfolk who may lose their livelihoods. This response also involves coordination with the Department of Health and the Office of Civil Defense.
Tiu Laurel mentioned ongoing projects such as the fast-tracking of solar-powered irrigation systems, for which PHP1.6 billion has been allocated this year. Additional funding is under consideration for 2027. The DA is also preparing solar-powered paddle wheels to maintain oxygen levels in fishponds and lakes during extreme heat, aiming to prevent fish kills.
The DA's water management initiatives involve working with the National Irrigation Administration to implement alternate wetting and drying techniques, conserving water while maintaining crop production. Tiu Laurel proposed additional funding for fertilizer vouchers or cash assistance to prevent reductions in fertilizer use due to rising prices, which could impact yields.
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian urged the DA to provide a comprehensive readiness assessment, including projected agricultural losses and necessary measures before El Niño peaks. The DA's worst-case scenario anticipates that up to 4.6 million farmers and fisherfolk could be affected, with agricultural damage potentially reaching PHP20 billion.
The DA is relying on the PHP10-billion Presidential Assistance to Farmers and Fisherfolk allocation in the 2027 spending bill to provide direct cash assistance, although Tiu Laurel acknowledged that additional agency assistance is necessary. Gatchalian requested a detailed briefing on the DA's El Niño response and directed the department to submit its readiness plan to ensure the government's preparedness.
Tiu Laurel committed to providing the necessary information, emphasizing the importance of investments in water infrastructure and agricultural support to strengthen the sector against future El Niño events.
