March 27, 2024

Philippines implements measures to mitigate El Nino effects in Calabarzon

The Philippines' Department of Agriculture in Calabarzon (DA-4A) is rolling out several measures in the administrative region, southeast of Metro Manila, to counter the impacts of El Nino on local farmers and ensure continuous food production during the dry season, Philippine News Agency reported.

Engineer Redelliza Gruezo, Officer-in-Charge of the Field Operations Division of DA-4A, outlined various initiatives aimed at safeguarding crops amid water scarcity. These measures include maintenance work on essential irrigation facilities, desiltation of canals, rotational water distribution, and the adoption of Alternative Wetting and Drying Technology (AWD) and Quick Turn Around (QTA) Strategy.

Gruezo highlighted the necessity for farmers to employ advanced irrigation methods to sustain their crops, part of the government's commitment to supporting agricultural activities in Calabarzon through various programmes and policies.

Recently, DA-4A distributed agricultural interventions worth PHP 5.5 million (US$97,655) to farmers in San Pascual and Mabini towns, providing them with tractors, seeds, and fertilisers to boost production during the dry season.

Moreover, the department is encouraging farmers to cultivate drought-resistant crops and supplying them with seeds suitable for low-water conditions.

Gruezo said it is important to coordinate among regional agencies, local governments, and farmers' groups to effectively mitigate the impacts of El Nino on food production.

According to the LGU Damage Report, Calabarzon has incurred PHP 50 million (US$887,000) in losses, mainly in rice and corn production, highlighting the significance of sustaining key agricultural sectors in the region to meet consumer demand.

-      Philippine News Agency