(Photo courtesy of PIA)
CALAMBA CITY, Laguna – Government agencies in Calabarzon are strengthening preparations to address the potential effects of Super El Niño, particularly on water supply, agriculture, energy, health, and public safety.
During a recent meeting of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC), member agencies discussed the development of an El Niño Regional Action Plan outlining preparedness, response, and rehabilitation measures.
Annie Mae Dizon, economic development specialist at the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DepDev) Calabarzon, identified five priority areas under the proposed plan: water security, food security, energy security, health, and public safety.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) will lead efforts to maintain reliable water supplies for households and essential services.
Meanwhile, the Department of Agriculture (DA) will coordinate measures to protect food production, reduce income losses among farmers and fisherfolk, and maintain access to affordable food.
The Department of Energy (DOE) will focus on preventing power disruptions and ensuring stable fuel supplies by strengthening energy supply chains.
For health-related concerns, the Department of Health (DOH) will enhance disease monitoring, early warning systems, emergency preparedness, and public awareness campaigns.
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) will oversee initiatives aimed at maintaining peace, order, and public safety during prolonged dry conditions.
The RDRRMC is scheduled to meet again on November 13 to finalize the regional action plan and strengthen coordination among participating agencies.
The preparations follow a warning from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) that a very strong El Niño could persist through the first half of 2027, with conditions potentially reaching their peak before the end of 2026.
