Tunis:Northern Samar The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) in Northern Samar has endorsed declaring a state of calamity in the province as authorities prepare for the worsening effects of El Niño on agriculture, fisheries, livestock, water supply, and public health.
According to Philippines News Agency, the endorsement followed a pre-disaster risk assessment meeting convened by Governor Harris Christopher Ongchuan. During this meeting, officials assessed the province's preparedness and the initial impact of the dry spell.
The Provincial Agriculture Office reported approximately PHP50 million in initial damages and losses to agricultural production, especially rice, with 1,872 farmers and fisherfolk already affected. These numbers are expected to rise as El Niño is predicted to intensify from December 2026 through May 2027.
Provincial agriculturist and veterinary officer Jose Luis Acompañado highlighted water availability as a major concern for both crop and livestock production. He noted that livestock, particularly carabaos, are significantly affected by the lack of water, which increases their sensitivity to heat. Prolonged heat conditions could also lead to increased parasite loads among livestock.
Authorities identified several critical needs for the agriculture sector, including water for livestock, crop production, and irrigation, as well as seeds for vulnerable areas. Water-saving measures, irrigation assessments, and pest and disease monitoring were also prioritized.
The fisheries sector will undergo assessment due to threats posed by prolonged dry conditions on water availability and fisherfolk livelihoods. Additionally, the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) reported declining water levels in some service areas and recommended water rationing in areas with potable water shortages.
Health officials have noted an increase in cases of diarrhea, dengue, and heat-related illnesses, along with livestock deaths and heat stress among poultry and other animals. The Provincial Health Office has a buffer stock of medicines but advised residents to take precautions against extreme heat, particularly those with existing health conditions.
Governor Ongchuan, as chair of the PDRRMC, called for stronger water and energy conservation measures and closer coordination among government agencies to mitigate El Niño's impacts. The council's endorsement of the state of calamity declaration, proposed by Board Member Lope Dorado and PDRRM Officer Rei Josiah Echano, aims to expedite disaster response and recovery efforts.
