Nueva Vizcaya:Manila Malacañang has assured residents of Nueva Vizcaya that the government is taking steps to mitigate the effects of the impending strong El Niño, particularly for farmers and fisherfolk in the region.
According to Philippines News Agency, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro emphasized the seriousness of the threat, leading President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to initiate early interventions. The Cagayan Valley region, which includes Nueva Vizcaya, is expected to be significantly affected by the weather phenomenon.
Preparations include distributing agricultural equipment, improving irrigation facilities, providing farm inputs, and extending financial assistance. Castro highlighted that resources like irrigation pipes and farm machinery were already distributed to farming communities in Nueva Vizcaya as early as June 2026 to bolster their readiness for the expected dry conditions.
In addition, the government has allocated PHP20 million for solar-powered pumps and is offering fuel assistance to farmers in the province. The Department of Agriculture has invested PHP17.9 million in farm inputs, such as seeds and fertilizers, to aid farmers in preparing for the El Niño.
Furthermore, the Department of Social Welfare and Development has allocated PHP702.619 million in financial assistance for 68,905 beneficiaries under its Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport program. Other government agencies, including the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the National Irrigation Administration, are also providing mobile solar-powered irrigation pumps to ensure an adequate water supply for crops.
The Department of Agriculture, National Irrigation Administration, and Department of Social Welfare and Development are collaborating to provide affected farmers and fisherfolk with necessary resources like fuel, fertilizers, seeds, and financial support. Castro reassured that despite the challenges posed by a very strong El Niño, the government is addressing the needs of Nueva Vizcaya’s residents through timely interventions.
