Antique agriculture office urges shift to drought-resistant crops amid El Niño threat
SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA, Antique – The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA) in Antique is urging farmers to plant drought-resistant crops as the province prepares for the possible effects of the El Niño phenomenon.
Provincial agriculturist staff member Christian Dubria said farmers are being advised to take early precautions against potential water shortages, although no crop damage has been reported so far.
“One of the possible impacts of El Niño is reduced crop production due to water scarcity,” he said.
To mitigate risks, farmers are encouraged to plant drought-tolerant and early-maturing rice varieties such as Pagsanjan (PSB Rc10). Authorities also advised them to secure crop insurance coverage through the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation to help recover losses in case of damage.
For diversification, the agriculture office also recommends planting vegetables and root crops such as squash and sweet potato, which require less water.
Dubria also called on the Bantay Peste Brigade—composed of farmers and barangay leaders—to immediately report pest outbreaks, including rice black bug infestations, to local agriculture offices for prompt action.
He further reminded the Bantay Dagat task force to remain vigilant, noting that extreme heat conditions associated with El Niño may also affect the fisheries sector.
“High temperatures may also lead to fish kills,” he warned.
The provincial agriculture office said continued monitoring and early preparedness are key to minimizing the potential impact of drought conditions on both farming and fishing communities.
NPO News Team | Philippine News Agency - PR
