Farmers fear El Niño
FILIPINO farmers are urging all sectors to prepare for the onset of the El Nino that will likely affect critical areas including water supply, agriculture, food, energy, and health.
The Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) expressed concern over the effects of the phenomenon on their production.
“The onset of El Nino is less than a month away. Dry spells and mild drought were observed in some areas. We are worried about the government’s response and approach to El Nino,’” the group said in a statement.
“The 2023 to 2024 El Nino could be catastrophic to Filipinos if we are not equipped and if the government keeps slacking off. Among the main track of action and response should be to lower the vulnerabilities,” it added.
Records show that El Nino periods have become drier and longer in the past several decades — 1997 to 1998 (13 months); 2014 to 2016 (19 months); and 2018 to 2019 (19 months).
The latest forecast models showed that a moderate to strong El Nino would develop by August to September this year —threatening local agriculture and food, and water supply.
Meanwhile, the KMP asked Department of Agriculture (DA) undersecretary Leocadio Sebastian to explain statements downplaying the possible effects of El Nino.
For its part, NEDA said El Nino would not deeply hurt the local economy.
KMP said there should be a massive information drive about El Nino and its possible effects on various sectors. Farmers and fisherfolks must be made aware of El Nino observations and warnings. Identification of exposures or what areas and sectors will be most affected should also be in place.
The group said community-level response must also be developed and supported. “Farming households must practice simple rainwater harvesting and collection systems. With significant support and subsidies, farmers can also plant early maturing varieties, climate-resilient varieties, and survival crops including root crops, and bananas, among others. An agroecological approach to food production can also help.
