Philippine Government to Offer Alternative Livelihood to Farmers Affected by El Niño

MANILA — The Philippine government has announced its readiness to support farmers facing irreversible damage to their agricultural land due to the ongoing El Niño phenomenon, with plans to provide alternative livelihood assistance. This initiative, led by the Task Force El Niño, aims to mitigate the adverse impacts of the weather condition on the agricultural sector.

According to Philippines news Agency, Task Force El Niño spokesperson and Communications Assistant Secretary Joey Villarama, the government is prepared to offer immediate help to those most affected by El Niño. During a broadcast on the state-run PTV-4’s Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon Program, Villarama explained the government’s approach to assisting farmers with damaged lands, including the possibility of replanting different crops or providing alternative forms of livelihood, such as domestic animal rearing.

Farmers with lands deemed beyond recovery will be eligible for cash assistance and may receive goats, ducks, and native chickens to support their livelihood during this challenging period. This measure is part of a broader strategy to ensure that affected communities can sustain themselves amidst the agricultural setbacks caused by El Niño.

The government’s response to the El Niño threat includes a scientific approach to securing the country’s water, energy, and food supplies. Villarama emphasized the importance of vigilance against health risks associated with extreme heat, such as heat stroke and skin diseases, especially among vulnerable populations like senior citizens and children.

With the current El Niño event expected to persist until May, 14 out of 41 impacted provinces are already experiencing drought conditions, with others facing dry spells and dry conditions. The government is closely monitoring the situation, including the potential impact on food prices and the adequacy of water and power supply.

The reactivation, reconstitution, and streamlining of the Task Force El Niño through Executive Order No. 53, signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on January 19, underlines the administration’s commitment to developing a comprehensive disaster preparedness and rehabilitation plan. This plan is designed to provide systematic, holistic, and results-driven interventions to help the public cope with and minimize the devastating effects of El Niño and La Niña.