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, preparing emergency assistance, and coordinating with other government agencies.
According to Philippines News Agency, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. discussed the government's preparations during a Senate budget hearing. He emphasized the DA's shift towards a coordinated response, enabling agencies to pool resources and deliver assistance to affected communities. This collaboration involves the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), focusing on providing cash assistance, food packs, and temporary employment for farmers and fisherfolk who may lose their livelihoods.
Tiu Laurel highlighted ongoing efforts, such as fast-tracking solar-powered irrigation systems with a PHP1.6 billion allocation for this year and considering additional funding for 2027. The DA is also preparing solar-powered paddle wheels to maintain oxygen levels in fishponds during extreme heat, hoping to reduce fish kill risks. The department is working with the National Irrigation Administration to implement water-conserving techniques while sustaining crop production.
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian urged the DA to provide a comprehensive assessment of its preparedness, including projected agricultural losses and available funding before El Niño peaks. Tiu Laurel noted that as many as 4.6 million farmers and fisherfolk could be affected under the worst-case scenario, with potential agricultural damage reaching PHP20 billion.
The DA is also relying on the PHP10-billion Presidential Assistance to Farmers and Fisherfolk allocation for direct cash assistance, though Tiu Laurel acknowledged that further assistance from other agencies would be necessary. Gatchalian's special committee on economic recovery plans to review the government's El Niño response, with a request for a detailed briefing on prepared measures. Tiu Laurel committed to providing the requested readiness plan, emphasizing the importance of investments in water infrastructure and agricultural support to withstand future El Niño episodes.
