Doha:Ilocos Region The Department of Agriculture Ilocos Region Field Office (DA-FO1) has reported PHP157.87 million in agricultural losses as of October 30 due to the El Niño phenomenon.

According to Philippines News Agency, the losses included PHP156.41 million from rice crops, PHP1.39 million from high-value crops, PHP55,000 from corn, and PHP18,000 from livestock and poultry. The damages affected 2,470.78 hectares of land across Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, and La Union.

The Pangasinan Provincial Agriculture Office is still assessing the damage in its area. DA-FO1 reported 5,862 farmers in the region were impacted, with a total volume loss of 7,294.08 metric tons.

The Department of Agriculture has allocated over PHP1.5 billion for the El Niño Action Plan, which includes preparatory activities, maximizing production in non-vulnerable areas, saving production in vulnerable areas, and rehabilitating affected areas.