The Department of Agriculture (DA) is implementing a coordinated, data-informed preparedness plan to help the agriculture sector manage potential dry conditions associated with a possible El Niño later in 2026.
The plan builds on lessons from the 2024 dry spell and focuses on readiness, coordination, and timely interventions.
At the center of the preparations are concerned DA programs and regional offices, working with partner agencies to help safeguard agricultural production and support farmers’ incomes should dry conditions develop.
“We are taking early steps to prepare for possible El Niño conditions,” Engr. Christopher Morales, Undersecretary for Rice Industry Development, said. “This is about readiness and reducing potential impacts on farmers and production.”
A key component of the plan is the assessment of irrigation systems to identify areas that may be affected by reduced water availability. The DA, in coordination with the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), is assessing major irrigation systems, including Magat, the Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System (UPRIIS), and other national systems, to identify areas that may require water allocation adjustments, scheduling measures, or supplemental water management interventions.
In parallel, climate-risk mapping is being strengthened. The Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), together with the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM), is updating maps of rainfed and seasonal farming areas to support planning for planting calendars, crop choices, and water management under varying rainfall conditions.
DA Regional Field Offices are likewise reviewing local conditions using historical climate data and field validation to guide localized preparedness measures.
The DA has begun prepositioning agricultural support inputs such as drought-tolerant seed varieties, fertilizers, and irrigation assistance to ensure availability when needed. Existing support mechanisms, including crop insurance, access to credit, and market facilitation, are also being strengthened to help stabilize farmers’ incomes.
The agency is also evaluating the possible use of cloud seeding in selected areas, subject to technical assessment and suitable atmospheric conditions, as a supplementary measure in cases of significant rainfall deficits.
To improve coordination, the El Niño Task Force is being reactivated to align actions across agencies involved in water management and agricultural support. This is intended to ensure faster coordination and clearer implementation of response measures when needed.
The DA is also refining its 2024 El Niño response framework, incorporating field experience and implementation gaps to improve planning under different climate scenarios and strengthen operational flexibility.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said the preparations are aligned with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure continued support for farmers and stable food supply.
“These measures are aimed at strengthening preparedness and ensuring that support systems are in place to help farmers maintain productivity under changing weather conditions,” Tiu Laurel said.
The DA emphasized that these actions are precautionary and form part of ongoing efforts to improve resilience in the agriculture sector through better planning, coordination, and timely support.
