May 9, 2024

Agricultural losses in Negros Oriental, Philippines, hit US$9.4 million due to drought

In Negros Oriental, Philippines, the impact of the El Niño-induced drought has led to agricultural losses exceeding PHP 541 million (US$9.4 million), according to a report from the country's Department of Agriculture-Provincial Agriculture Technology Coordinating Office, Philippine News Agency reported.

The report highlighted the significant production loss of approximately PHP 541.4 million (US$9.4 million) since December of the previous year. It revealed that 1,410 hectares of land, irreversibly damaged by drought, face total loss, while another 3,607 hectares suffer partial damage.

The total production loss, encompassing rice, corn, high-value crops, fisheries, and livestock, amounted to over 9,560 metric tonnes.

El Nino's effects have been felt across 21 towns and cities in the province, including Mabinay, Bayawan City, Sta. Catalina, Zamboanguita, and Vallehermoso, among others.

Bayawan City reported the most significant losses, totalling around PHP 251 million (US$4.3 million), notably affecting sugarcane production.

Negros Oriental has already been declared under a state of calamity due to the El Niño conditions, expected to persist until late May or early June 2024.

-      Philippine News Agency