NEGROS ORIENTAL, Philippines - The agricultural sector in Negros Oriental has suffered significant losses estimated at PHP77 million due to the detrimental effects of the El Niño-induced drought, as reported by local officials.
According to Philippines News Agency, head of the Department of Agriculture-Provincial Agriculture Technology Coordinating Office (DA-PATCO) in Negros Oriental, detailed damage assessments from various local government units began surfacing last week. These reports highlighted substantial losses across key agricultural domains, particularly in rice and corn production.
In Bayawan City alone, the damage to rice and corn crops has surpassed PHP30 million, impacting 792 farmers. Mabinay town has also experienced considerable losses, with damages amounting to around PHP18 million and 550 rice farmers affected. Furthermore, Zamboanguita has reported severe destruction over 430 hectares, with an estimated PHP27.9 million loss in rice and irrigation assets. The drought's severity also led to the malfunction of a crucial irrigation system in the area.
Additionally, Vallehermoso, situated in the northern part of the province, faced about PHP1 million in damages, affecting 88 local farmers engaged in cultivating rice, corn, and other high-value crops, along with livestock farming.
Rafal emphasized the ongoing need for validation of these reports to facilitate targeted aid distribution from the DA, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, and the Department of Labor and Employment. Current government efforts include providing seeds for intercropping to mitigate the impact on the farmers whose livelihoods have been disrupted by the drought.
The abnormal weather conditions have prompted concerns about potential delays in the upcoming cropping season, traditionally set to commence in mid-April. In response to the escalating situation, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. enacted Executive Order No. 53 on January 19, aimed at enhancing the nation's preparedness and response mechanisms for both El Niño and La Niña phenomena through strategic, comprehensive, and effective interventions.