The El Niño weather phenomenon has so far caused over PHP1.23 billion in agricultural damage across the country, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported Monday. In its latest situation report, the agency said Western Visayas is the hardest-hit region, incurring PHP678.7 million in agricultural damage; followed by Mimaropa (PHP319.7 million); Cagayan Valley (PHP180.4 million); Ilocos (PHP54.4 million); Calabarzon (PHP2.75 million) and Zamboanga Peninsula (PHP717,527). A total of 29,409 farmers and fisherfolk have been affected while the affected crop area has reached a total of 26,731.4 hectares. Out of the total affected crop area, 11,276.32 hectares were classified as "totally damaged" or having no chance of recovery from the effects of the El Niño while 15,455.08 hectares were partially damaged or having a chance of recovery. Source: Philippines News Agency
