World · Philippines Bureau
El Niño poses threat to Mindoro rice output and supplies
Agricultural officials warn that intensifying El Niño conditions could significantly impact rice production across Mindoro, potentially affecting availability of the prized Dinorado variety. The Philippine Statistics Authority has identified the twin provinces as major rice-producing regions vulnerable to the weather phenomenon.
LSN Philippines ·
CALAPAN CITY — Rice growers and policymakers in Mindoro face mounting concerns over potential crop losses as El Niño conditions threaten to disrupt production across the island's agricultural heartland.
According to data compiled by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Oriental Mindoro and the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), both Oriental Mindoro and Occidental Mindoro are significant contributors to the nation's rice supply. Should El Niño intensify, the provinces' output could face considerable strain, with implications for regional and national food security.
The concern extends to specialty rice varieties cultivated in the region, most notably Dinorado rice, which commands strong demand both domestically and in export markets. A decline in production would likely affect availability and potentially drive up prices for consumers nationwide.
The advisory underscores the vulnerability of Philippine agriculture to climate variability, particularly during El Niño episodes when drought conditions stress water-dependent crops like rice. Regional authorities have yet to announce specific contingency measures or agricultural assistance programs in response to the forecast.