Baku:Pangasinan The provincial government of Pangasinan, in collaboration with national government agencies, is ramping up efforts to support farmers and fisherfolk associations as they brace for the impact of a strong El Niño phenomenon. Provincial agriculturist Dalisay Moya announced that water pumps will be distributed to farmers' associations starting January next year as part of the mitigation measures.
According to Philippines News agency, the Department of Agriculture has earmarked over PHP1.5 billion for the region's El Niño action plan. Assistance has also been assured by the Department of Social Welfare and Development and the Department of Labor and Employment for those affected by the climate event.
A congress was convened on Tuesday by the provincial government and various government agencies, including the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, National Irrigation Administration, and others. The gathering aimed to provide farmers and fishers with crucial information about the El Niño phenomenon. Governor Ramon Guico III emphasized the importance of preparing and mitigating the effects of El Niño on the agricultural community.
Moya stated that approximately 37,000 hectares of land and about 38,000 farmers and 15,200 fishers in the province are expected to be impacted, particularly those at the tail end of irrigation systems. Additionally, around 50,000 hectares of rain-fed areas could be affected, although recent rainfall has bolstered water availability in some regions, including the San Roque Dam.
NIA principal engineer Harry Villanueva advised farmers at the tail end of irrigation systems to adopt rotational cropping schedules or avoid planting if water is insufficient, to minimize potential losses. NIA is also actively inspecting and repairing irrigation canals to ensure continuous water supply.
