Philippines Ramps Up Irrigation Projects to Combat El Niño Impact

In response to the anticipated effects of El Niño, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines has directed government agencies to accelerate the completion of irrigation projects and other related facilities. This initiative is aimed at mitigating the impact of El Niño on agriculture and other sectors, particularly addressing concerns of decreased rainfall and potential drought. The President has set a deadline for the completion of these projects by April of the following year.

During events in Nueva Ecija and Zambales, President Marcos emphasized the importance of the Department of Agriculture and the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) in ensuring the timely finish of ongoing water projects. This is crucial as the dry season, possibly exacerbated by El Niño, is expected to extend into the second quarter. Additionally, the President has initiated the restructuring of the Task Force El Niño, recognizing the need for more extensive measures to counter the weather phenomenon’s effects, which may also impact the power and health sectors.

El Niño, characterized by unusual warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, leads to reduced rainfall. In response, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, in collaboration with the Office of Civil Defense, will lead the restructured task force to combat these challenges.

To further bolster the country’s preparedness, President Marcos has overseen the procurement and distribution of 141 wheeled excavators, valued at P776 million, to NIA field offices. This move reflects the government’s commitment to developing and effectively utilizing agricultural lands. The excavators will play a vital role in restoring and maintaining irrigation systems, thereby enhancing agricultural productivity and ensuring a steady supply of food and agricultural products.

Moreover, the President has urged the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Department of National Defense to explore all possible interventions, including cloud seeding and rain-making, to maintain a continuous water supply for farmlands. He has also directed the Department of Budget and Management to secure funding for acquiring necessary machinery to improve irrigation systems nationwide. These efforts are part of the administration’s broader goal to develop, modernize, and enhance the agriculture sector, aiming for a more food-secure and prosperous future for the Filipino people​​​​​​​​​​​​.