Manila: The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council in Western Visayas: is consolidating the integrated action plans of government agencies in preparation for the El Niño phenomenon to ensure all affected sectors are covered. According to Philippines News Agency, Civil Defense Regional Director and RDRRMC Chair Raul Fernandez announced that the region is prepared, having previously experienced El Niño in 2024, with programs, projects, and activities already in place. Fernandez emphasized the importance of ensuring that these programs encompass all affected sectors, stating, "We will just make sure that the programs will cover all affected sectors and make sure no one is left behind." The council plans to convene its El Niño task group once the agencies submit their action plans to review their programs, projects, and activities. Pre-disaster risk assessment and scenario-building activities have been conducted to evaluate the potential effects of El Niño on various sectors, including water su pply, agriculture, energy, and health. Fernandez highlighted the advantage of early planning, which enables agencies and local government units to implement mitigation measures before severe impacts occur. He also noted that the state weather bureau's continuous updates assist authorities in making necessary preparations. Additionally, the council conducts climate forums in higher education institutions, involving students, faculty members, and researchers in discussions on climate risks, adaptation, and disaster resilience. It offers technical assistance to schools in preparing contingency plans for El Niño.