By Luis Cueto
CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines — The Department of Agriculture (DA) MIMAROPA is preparing alternative crops and other interventions for farmers who may be unable to plant rice as prolonged dry conditions reduce water availability due to a possible “very strong” El Niño.
Engr. Maria Teresa B. Carido, Development Management Officer V of DA MIMAROPA, said the agency is preparing planting materials that can be grown in areas where water shortages could affect rice production.
“With regard sa resistant plants, lalo na ngayong posibleng pagdating ng super El Niño, namimigay po kami ng mga planting materials tulad ng munggo sa mga areas na hindi makapagtanim ng palay dahil sa kakulangan ng tubig,” Carido said during the Arangkada MIMAROPA radio program of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) MIMAROPA with Radyo Pilipinas Palawan.
Carido said the DA is also coordinating with the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) to identify rice varieties that can better withstand drought, as well as other crops that could be planted in areas expected to experience severe dry conditions.
“Humahanap kami ng mga pananim na talagang puwedeng maitanim kahit makaranas pa ng matinding epekto ng El Niño,” she said, noting that some vegetable varieties and upland crops may continue to grow despite limited water.
She emphasized that early preparation is crucial as the agency continues to monitor climate forecasts to guide its interventions and determine appropriate assistance for affected agricultural areas.
“Patuloy po kaming naghahanda, nagmo-monitor po kami ng climate forecast para sa paghahanda,” Carido said.
Aside from alternative planting materials, DA MIMAROPA has more than P147 million allocated for seeds, planting materials, fertilizers and pesticides to support farmers’ agricultural activities.
The agency also has more than P59 million in fuel assistance for qualified farmers and fisherfolk. Under the program, eligible beneficiaries may receive P5,000, particularly those who rent farm machinery for their agricultural activities.
The DA MIMAROPA’s preparations form part of broader government efforts to protect agricultural production and food security from climate-related risks. In a Sept. 25, 2026 Palace briefing, the Presidential Communications Office said President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. directed the preparation of an El Niño task force to help the country, particularly the agriculture sector, prepare for the possible effects of the dry spell. (LTC/JBG/PIA MIMAROPA)
