El Nino affects over 215,386 farmers, fisherfolk; damage hits around P6.5-B

The ongoing El Niño phenomenon has caused an estimated P6.539 billion in agricultural damage across 10 regions in the Philippines, affecting more than 215,386 farmers and fisherfolk, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC)  reported on Wednesday, October 14. 

According to the NDRRMC, Cagayan Valley recorded the highest losses at nearly P4.96 billion, followed by the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) with P934.9 million and Davao Region with P410.1 million.

Other affected regions include:

• Zamboanga Peninsula – P95.8 million 
• Bicol Region – P37.48 million
• Central Visayas – P22.77 million
• CALABARZON – P19.7 million
• Western Visayas P14.58 million
• Soccsksargen – P12.57 million
• Central Luzon – P1.88 million.

The council estimated that around 241,664.95 hectares of agricultural land have been damaged. Of this area, 51,594.93 hectares were classified as totally damaged, while 188,507.02 hectares were partially damaged.

Meanwhile, 101  cities and municipalities across the country have declared a state of calamity due to the effects  of El Niño. Cagayan Valley accounted for 66 of these local government units, followed by Caraga with 23 and Bicol Region with 12. 

According to the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA), El Niño  has been present in the tropical Pacific since June.

The weather phenomenon increases the likelihood of below-normal rainfall, potentially resulting in droughts in parts of the country. However, strong rainfall may also occur over the western portions of the Philippines during the southwest monsoon season. 

On September 23, DOST-PAGASA forecast that El Niño  could intensify to a “Very Strong” level between September and December 2026 and continue through the first half of 2027.

In response, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) urged the local government units to strengthen preparedness measures to protect critical infrastructure and maintain uninterrupted water and energy services. 

The department called on local governments to expedite permits for emergency pipeline repairs and rehabilitation, restrict non-essential water use, and promote water recycling, rainwater harvesting, and catchment systems. 

For energy security, LGUs were also urged to strengthen backup power systems and prepare fuel supplies in advance. Hospitals, water supply systems, public schools, evacuation centers, and emergency operation centers were likewise advised to maintain adequate backup power, water storage, and resupply plans to ensure the continuity and essential services.