Business · Philippines Bureau
DA alerts Eastern Visayas farmers, fishers as El Niño intensifies drought
The Department of Agriculture has issued a warning to farming and fishing communities across Eastern Visayas to prepare for worsening conditions as El Niño prolongs the dry spell across the region. Several municipalities have already declared states of calamity as agricultural output faces mounting pressure.
LSN Philippines ·
TACLOBAN CITY — The Department of Agriculture on Monday urged farmers and fisherfolk throughout Eastern Visayas to implement protective measures against intensifying heat and drought conditions linked to the El Niño weather phenomenon. The advisory comes as prolonged dry weather threatens crop yields and fishing productivity across the region.
At least one municipality in Samar has formally declared a state of calamity in response to the deteriorating agricultural situation. The declaration underscores growing concerns among provincial officials about the potential impact on food security and rural livelihoods as the dry period extends.
The DA has recommended that farming communities adopt water-conservation strategies, including improved irrigation practices and the use of drought-resistant crop varieties. Fisherfolk have been advised to monitor sea conditions carefully and take precautions to ensure safety during the extreme weather period.
El Niño, a cyclical weather pattern characterized by warmer ocean temperatures across the Pacific, typically brings reduced rainfall to parts of Southeast Asia. Agricultural experts warn that sustained drought conditions could significantly reduce harvests if farmers are unable to implement adequate mitigation strategies over the coming weeks.