Business · Philippines Bureau
DA, NIA seek bigger 2027 budget to combat El Niño threats
The Department of Agriculture and National Irrigation Administration have appealed for increased funding in next year's budget to mitigate potential El Niño impacts on Philippine agriculture and water resources.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — The Department of Agriculture and National Irrigation Administration presented their case for enhanced budget allocations during House committee hearings on Tuesday, citing the need for stronger preparedness measures against potential El Niño effects.
Both agencies outlined proposals for expanded funding of key projects aimed at building resilience in the agricultural sector and improving irrigation infrastructure across the country. The appeals were made during the House committee on appropriations' review of the two agencies' budget proposals for the 2027 fiscal year.
El Niño weather patterns have historically posed significant challenges to Philippine agriculture, bringing extended dry periods that threaten crop production and livestock operations. The agencies' requests underscored concerns about possible water shortages and reduced yields if adequate preventive measures are not implemented.
The briefings reflected growing awareness among government bodies of the need for proactive investment in agricultural resilience and water management systems. Officials emphasized that increased allocations would strengthen the country's capacity to respond to climate-related agricultural disruptions and protect farming communities from potential economic losses.