MANILA – An administration lawmaker has urged the Department of Agriculture (DA) to intensify its preparations against the growing impact of El Niño on the country's livestock industry, warning that prolonged dry conditions could trigger more disease outbreaks and threaten the nation's food security.

Abra Lone District Representative JB Bernos on Thursday called on the DA to immediately implement preventive measures following the recent outbreak of the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza among backyard poultry in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro.

"The recent bird flu outbreak in Oriental Mindoro should serve as a serious warning of the risks posed by prolonged drought," Bernos said in a statement.

He emphasized the need for urgent government intervention to prevent the widespread transmission of livestock diseases brought about by extreme heat and environmental stress.

"Nananawagan tayo sa DA na sa lalong madaling panahon ay maglatag na tayo ng mga hakbang para maiwasan ang lubusang pagkalat ng iba't ibang sakit," Bernos said.

Earlier this month, authorities confirmed cases of the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza among backyard birds in Oriental Mindoro, prompting immediate culling operations to contain the outbreak.

A member of the House Committee on Agriculture and Food, Bernos explained that prolonged exposure to high temperatures and reduced feed quality during El Niño can weaken animals' immune systems, making them more susceptible to infectious diseases.

He stressed that protecting livestock is essential not only for farmers but also for the country's food supply, as disruptions in production could significantly affect Filipino households.

Researchers from the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) estimate that the livestock industry could incur losses of as much as PHP9.9 billion if the anticipated severe El Niño episode intensifies.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) likewise indicate that the livestock and poultry sectors contribute nearly 30 percent of the country's total agricultural output, underscoring their vital role in ensuring national food security.

"The livestock sector is central to food security. We must do everything possible to minimize livestock losses, protect the livelihoods of our farmers, and ensure a stable food supply for Filipino families," Bernos said.

The lawmaker expressed hope that the DA would strengthen disease surveillance, improve veterinary support services, and provide timely assistance to livestock raisers to reduce the potential economic impact of El Niño.

NPO NEWS TEAM I PNA-PR