Gov’t boosting climate-resilient farming amid El Niño threat – Marcos

MANILA, Philippines — The government is stepping up climate-resilient initiatives for farmers as the country braces for the impact of El Niño,  President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said on Monday.

Marcos made the remarks during the inauguration of the Mabini-Cayacay Small Reservoir Irrigation Project (SRIP) in Barangay Abaca, Mabini, Bohol.

READ: El Niño may cut PH rice output by 700,000 metric tons, says DA

“According to our data, there is a high possibility that the country will experience a strong El Niño that may last until next year, 2027,” Marcos said in Filipino.

“We are promoting modern farming methods that are suited to the climate—such as the use of solar pumps and water reuse or recycling in areas that are frequently affected by drought,” added Marcos.

Marcos urged farmers to plant high-value commercial crops such as watermelon, ginger, and eggplant, among others, which require less water than rice.

“At the same time, we continue to spread important information on the proper care and maintenance of our irrigation facilities,” he also said.

The state weather bureau recently reported a 92-percent probability of a moderate to strong El Niño striking in the fourth quarter of 2026, potentially extending into early 2027.

More cropping cycles

Meanwhile, Marcos said the newly inaugurated P833.37-million Mabini-Cayacay SRIP would allow farmers to plant up to three times a year, from the previous two cropping cycles.

“At the same time, their concerns about the effects of El Niño will be reduced, as there will be a reliable source of water for their crops,” Marcos said.

The project will irrigate 530 hectares of agricultural land in the towns of Mabini and Alicia.

It will also benefit 717 farmers from Barangays Abaca, San Roque, Aguipo, and Cabidian in Mabini, as well as Barangay Cayacay in Alicia. /gsg