World · Philippines Bureau
PCA urges farmers to conserve water amid El Niño threat
The Philippine Coconut Authority is promoting moisture-retention techniques across Oriental Mindoro as prolonged drought conditions linked to El Niño put coconut farms at risk. Agricultural extension workers are conducting awareness campaigns to help farmers protect their crops from the extended dry spell.
LSN Philippines ·
CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro — The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) is stepping up efforts to help coconut growers in Oriental Mindoro adapt to harsh drought conditions associated with the ongoing El Niño weather pattern.
Jonna Marie Portales, chief of the PCA's Mindoro provinces division, said the agency's agricultural specialists are actively promoting water-conservation practices designed to minimize crop stress during the prolonged dry season. The initiative seeks to shield coconut plantations across the province from the damaging effects of sustained heat and moisture depletion.
The PCA's outreach campaign includes on-farm demonstrations and training sessions to educate farmers on techniques that help retain soil moisture and improve water efficiency. Officials have emphasized the importance of early intervention as El Niño conditions continue to present significant challenges to coconut production in the region.
The push comes as coconut farmers nationwide brace for potential yield losses amid forecasts of extended dry conditions. Agricultural experts have stressed that proactive water management and soil conservation measures are critical to safeguarding farm productivity during El Niño episodes.