Batac City:Local government units (LGUs) across the Ilocos Region are intensifying their support for farmers by improving access to water resources as the El Niño phenomenon threatens agricultural production and rural livelihoods.
According to Philippines News Agency, in Batac City, 1,100 water pumps and 890 irrigation hoses were distributed to registered farmers on Wednesday. This initiative is part of ongoing government interventions aimed at mitigating the impact of prolonged dry conditions, ensuring sufficient water for irrigation, and sustaining crop production despite declining water availability.
During the distribution event held at the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office in Barangay Quiling Sur, Mayor Mark Christian Chua urged farmers to maintain the agricultural equipment provided. He emphasized the city's commitment to agriculture, stating, "We are giving you capital, so please, let us work hard and take good care of the equipment given to you."
In addition to distributing water pumps and other agricultural tools, the provincial government of Ilocos Norte is focusing on rehabilitating and improving irrigation facilities, developing alternative water sources, and providing agricultural inputs to affected farmers. LGUs are also encouraging farmers to adopt climate-resilient farming practices, consider alternative crops that need less water, and maximize available resources to minimize production losses.
These initiatives underscore the critical role of local governments in coordinating with national agencies and farming communities to address the effects of extreme weather conditions. Acting provincial agriculturist Teresa Bacnat reported rice damage due to the drought in Pasuquin and Vintar, where most affected areas are rice fields lacking irrigation facilities.
The Department of Agriculture - Ilocos Region reported that as of November 3, a total of 5,862 farmers and approximately 2,470.78 hectares of farmland have been impacted, resulting in agricultural losses estimated at PHP228.46 million.
