MANILA, Philippines — The administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has intensified nationwide interventions to safeguard water security, agricultural production, and public health ahead of a predicted “Super El Niño.”
During a press briefing on Wednesday, Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro confirmed that inter-agency preparations have been underway since late May to cushion the country from potential widespread drought and resource deficits.
“Matagal na po, nag-convene iyong mga concerned agencies as early as May 25. Kaya po ngayon ay puspusan na po ang mga concerned agencies natin sa pagtatrabaho,” Castro stated.
To protect the farming sector, the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) has rolled out a mitigation framework that utilizes Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) groundwater mapping to locate viable sites for solar-powered pump irrigation. The agency is servicing existing pump infrastructures, installing mobile solar units in drought-vulnerable farmlands, and desilting irrigation canals to maximize flow capacity.
Simultaneously, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is setting up rainwater harvesting systems and small water impounding projects while managing forest fire risks.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) has evaluated irrigation networks, evaluated drought-tolerant crop varieties, modified cropping calendars, and distributed financial support to impacted farmers and fisherfolk.
Energy and health sectors are also preparing for climate-related strain. The Department of Energy (DOE) is readying contingencies for potential power grid disruptions, while health officials are coordinating interventions for heat-sensitive populations.
“So kailangan po ng hydration and cooling measures, health monitoring, and assistance for vulnerable residents, particularly children, adults, outdoor workers, and people with existing health vulnerabilities,” Castro added.
Regarding potential emergency funds to combat the severe weather pattern, Castro noted that agricultural relief funds have already been disbursed, with the Executive branch actively liaising with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to secure supplemental funding if required.