MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday raised the alarm over a possible prolonged El Niño phenomenon that could persist until 2027, directing government agencies to intensify drought mitigation measures as the country braces for potential threats to food production, water supply, and agricultural livelihoods.
Speaking during the inauguration of the P833.37-million Mabini-Cayacay Small Reservoir Irrigation Project in Bohol, Marcos said government forecasts indicate a significant likelihood of severe dry weather conditions that could extend beyond next year, underscoring the urgency of strengthening the country’s climate resilience.
“Ayon sa ating datos, malaki ang posibilidad na makakaranas ang bansa ng matinding El Niño na maaaring tumagal hanggang sa susunod pa na taon, 2027,” he said.
The President said the government is accelerating the development of irrigation infrastructure and other climate-adaptation projects to help shield farmers from the damaging effects of drought and extreme weather.
“Kaya’t sa ilalim ng Administrasyon, ating itinaguyod ang mga SRIP upang mapataas ang kita ng ating mga magsasaka at maging mas matatag naman ang laban sa sakuna,” Marcos said, referring to Small Reservoir Irrigation Projects (SRIPs).
As part of the government’s preparedness strategy, Marcos said farmers in drought-prone areas are being encouraged to shift to crops that require less water while offering higher market value.
“Bilang tugon sa banta ng El Niño, pinayuhan na natin ang ilang magsasaka na magtanim ng high-value commercial crop gaya ng pakwan, ng luya, ube, mani, at talong,” he said.
The administration is likewise promoting climate-resilient farming practices, including the use of solar-powered irrigation systems and water-recycling technologies in communities frequently affected by prolonged dry spells.
Marcos said government agencies have intensified information campaigns and coordination efforts with local communities and irrigation associations to ensure the proper maintenance and protection of water infrastructure.
The President led the inauguration of the Mabini-Cayacay Small Reservoir Irrigation Project, a National Irrigation Administration facility designed to strengthen water security for farmers in Bohol.
The project is expected to provide a reliable year-round water supply to about 530 hectares of agricultural land and directly benefit 717 farmers in the municipalities of Mabini and Alicia.
Government officials said the reservoir project forms part of broader efforts to boost agricultural productivity and enhance the country’s capacity to withstand the growing impact of climate change and extreme weather events./PN
