President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has issued Executive Order No. 53, instructing the reactivation and reconstitution of Task Force El Niño in response to the recurring El Niño phenomenon.
The order aims to address food, water, and energy security, protect livelihoods, and enhance the country’s disaster and climate resilience.
The Secretary of the Department of National Defense will chair the task force, with the Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology as co-chair. Members include secretaries from the Departments of Environment and Natural Resources, Agriculture, Health, and the National Economic and Development Authority.
The Office of Civil Defense will provide administrative and technical support. The task force will update the Strategic El Niño National Action Plan, oversee its implementation, expedite water infrastructure projects by April 2024, conduct an information campaign, and establish the El Niño Online Platform.
Monthly reports on EO implementation will be submitted to the President through the Office of the Executive Secretary.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 23, 2024
