Farmers in Western Visayas and Zamboanga Peninsula have suffered losses amounting to at least P109.44 million due to the impact of the El Niño climate phenomenon, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA).
The prolonged dry spell has affected 2,602 farmers who cultivate 2,177 hectares of land in these regions. The estimated volume of production loss is around 4,738 metric tons, with rice being the most affected crop.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) has stated that a “strong El Niño” will persist in the country until February, with a transition to Enso-neutral conditions in the following months.
According to the state weather agency, Enso-neutral describes weather conditions that do not fall under the categories of El Niño or La Niña.
The DA-Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operations Center has issued an El Niño bulletin, highlighting the impact on agriculture and the need for risk reduction measures.
Source: PhilNews24 | February 1, 2024
