MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang has reminded government agencies to keep their holiday celebrations simple as ongoing austerity measures remain in place, with the country bracing for the intensified effects of El Niño early next year.
During a press briefing, Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro clarified that while the administration is not issuing a blanket ban on festivities, officials are advised to avoid lavish events to ensure public resources are prioritized for pressing national concerns.
“Hanggang ngayon po nandoon pa rin ang austerity measures na dapat ipinatutupad,” Castro said.
“Kaya ang dapat na mga Christmas parties ay hindi man natin ipag-utos, pero ang reminder is dapat na maging simple dahil mas marami pa tayong kakaharapin na mga issues na dapat na matugunan,” she added.
Preparing for Stronger El Niño
The reminder comes as the administration ramps up preparations for a stronger El Niño projected to peak around January 2027.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed national agencies and local government units (LGUs) to safeguard water, food, and energy supplies, alongside protecting public health and livelihoods.
Executive Secretary Ralph Recto led a high-level meeting with key agency heads and local officials on Wednesday, November 4, to coordinate preemptive measures.
Water security remains a core focus, with the Angat Dam water level recorded at 208.70 meters on November 3—safely above its 180-meter minimum operating threshold. Meanwhile, the Department of Agriculture (DA) has committed to stabilizing food supplies and tracking commodity prices, especially rice, while the Department of Energy (DOE) is accelerating power plant maintenance and securing adequate fuel reserves.
Support for Farmers and High-Risk Areas
Recto instructed agencies to map out vulnerable communities facing high risks of water scarcity and extreme heat to streamline relief and equipment deployment. LGUs have also been tapped to report specific logistical needs, such as water storage units, generators, and solar power systems.
To mitigate agricultural impacts, the National Irrigation Administration has prepared mobile, solar-powered irrigation pumps destined for Region II, which is anticipated to bear the brunt of the severe weather phenomenon.