Manila:Malacañang has announced measures to support Nueva Vizcaya residents, particularly farmers and fisherfolk, against the anticipated severe effects of the El Niño weather phenomenon.

According to Philippines News Agency, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro emphasized that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. views the El Niño threat as a serious concern, prompting the government to implement early interventions. Cagayan Valley, including Nueva Vizcaya, is expected to be significantly affected.

Preparations include distributing agricultural equipment, irrigation facilities, farm inputs, and financial assistance. Castro assured residents that the government is taking proactive steps, having provided irrigation pipes and farm machinery to local farming communities as early as June 2026 and allocating PHP20 million for solar-powered pumps and fuel assistance.

The Department of Agriculture has invested PHP17.9 million in farm inputs like seeds and fertilizers. Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development has set aside PHP702.619 million to assist 68,905 beneficiaries through its UPLIFT program. Other agencies, such as the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the National Irrigation Administration, are also involved, providing mobile solar-powered irrigation pumps to ensure water supply for crops.

The government continues to coordinate efforts to meet the needs of affected farmers and fisherfolk, addressing the challenges posed by the expected very strong El Niño.