Gear up for storm, farmers, fishers told

TOPPLED CROPS A man walks over banana trees destroyed by Typhoon “Nona,” which hit Mindanao in 2015.—INQUIRER PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Agriculture (DA) advised farmers and fishers to secure their harvest and equipment ahead of the arrival of Typhoon Bising (international name: Surigae).

Based on the latest forecast of the state weather bureau, the typhoon may be headed toward the regions of Eastern Visayas and Bicol, although the DA also advised those in Luzon to prepare.

“We, therefore, advise our farmers … that may be affected by Typhoon Bising to harvest their crops, whenever possible,” said Agriculture Secretary William Dar. “We also urge fishermen near the typhoon’s path to take precautionary measures and refrain from fishing as conditions may worsen.”

Farmers were told to harvest mature crops and utilize their post-harvest facilities to secure their respective seed reserves, planting materials and other farm inputs. Livestock and poultry raisers were also urged to stock feeds and water, and relocate animals and farm machinery to higher ground if needed.

Drainages of irrigation systems were also advised to be cleared to prevent flooding farmlands, especially rice paddies.

Meanwhile, fishermen were urged to put fishing vessels on higher ground when possible and dismiss sea travel as potentially rough conditions may prevail.

The DA will be issuing regular daily weather bulletins through its Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operations Center.