Ilocos norte: The Ilocos Norte provincial government, collaborating with local government units and farmers' associations, has initiated efforts to build and repair small farm reservoirs and water impounding dams to address the challenges posed by the El Ni±o phenomenon currently affecting this region of Luzon.

According to Philippines News Agency, Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos announced at a press conference that early-maturing varieties of vegetables and corn seeds are being distributed to farmers. This measure is intended to assist farmers in continuing their agricultural activities despite the water scarcity issues. "We are starting to feel the effects of drought, so we are prioritizing our support for farmers as well as water conservation measures," she stated.

In a bid to ensure the availability of potable water, a portable desalination machine has been acquired for the 4th Marine Brigade at Camp Cape Bojeador in Burgos, Ilocos Norte. This technology will enable the conversion of seawater into drinkable water. Araneta-Marcos also mentioned plans to procure additional desalination units for the province's first and second districts to improve public access to clean and sustainable water sources.

Furthermore, farmers and fisherfolk are being advised to protect their crops by ensuring their inclusion in the Registry System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture masterlist. They are also encouraged to enhance cooperation with relevant government agencies to develop coordinated strategies for mitigating the impacts of drought.

The weather bureau has recently upgraded the country's status from 'El Ni±o Watch' to 'El Ni±o Alert,' indicating a heightened likelihood of below-normal rainfall, which could affect sectors such as irrigation, agriculture, power, and health. Model forecasts predict an increasing probability of El Ni±o conditions as early as the third quarter of this year.