Eastern visayas: The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has called on local government units in Eastern Visayas to prepare for the impact of the El Ni±o phenomenon. During the Maghanda Summit at the Leyte Convention Complex, disaster risk reduction and management officers were urged to activate mitigation measures as early signs of below-normal rainfall emerge.

According to Philippines News Agency, Joan Maghacot, chief meteorological officer of the PAGASA Catbalogan synoptic station, said the region is now just "one percent away" from a full-scale climate advisory. Maghacot explained that under the agency's monitoring system, an alert is issued once the probability of the phenomenon reaches 70 percent. "The alert means there is now a 79 percent probability that El Ni±o will occur; we are just one percent away from reaching the threshold for an El Ni±o Advisory," she said.

The 80 percent threshold triggers the advisory level, which requires heightened monitoring and an intensified government response across affected sectors. While the phenomenon is still developing, PAGASA expects the primary effects to be felt toward the latter part of the year. "The effects of El Ni±o will likely be experienced in the last quarter of this year until the second quarter of next year," Maghacot added.

PAGASA reported that sea surface temperatures in the central equatorial Pacific are currently significantly above normal, serving as a key trigger for the alert. The agency encouraged the public to monitor monthly Climate Outlook Forums as the country prepares for a potential reduction in water resources through 2027. The "Handa Pilipinas" Summit serves as the primary platform for the Department of Science and Technology to roll out technological solutions to mitigate the impacts of drought.