MANILA — The Department of Agriculture (DA) has ordered the reconvening of its El Niño task force as the agency prepares for a potentially severe dry spell later this year, warning of possible impacts on crop production, farmers’ incomes, and food prices.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the government must act quickly and in a coordinated manner to reduce the expected effects of the weather phenomenon on the agriculture sector and consumers.

“It is imperative that we put in place interventions that mitigate the impact of El Niño on agriculture, the livelihoods of farmers, fisherfolk, and others in the value chain, as well as its adverse effects on food supply, prices, and consumers,” Tiu Laurel said.

The DA said rice production alone could decline by as much as 700,000 metric tons, or 3.5 percent of the annual production target, if a strong El Niño develops, raising concerns over food security and rural incomes.

To address the projected impact, the agency has rolled out measures including cloud seeding operations, deployment of solar-powered irrigation systems, adjustments to planting schedules aligned with seasonal monsoon patterns, and crop diversification programs to help stabilize farmers’ earnings.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has projected a 92-percent probability of a moderate to strong El Niño occurring in the fourth quarter of 2026, which may extend into early 2027. PAGASA

The DA said proactive intervention is critical, citing the severe impact of the 2023–2024 El Niño, which caused P57.78 billion in agricultural losses—among the highest on record—affecting corn, rice, high-value crops, cassava, coconut, and fisheries.

Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed that overall agricultural output in 2024 declined by 2.2 percent to P483.58 billion. Philippine Statistics Authority

The agency warned that without timely intervention, reduced farm output could lead to higher food prices, supply disruptions, and increased pressure on low-income households.

The DA said it will intensify early warning systems, expand technology-enabled irrigation, and promote climate-resilient farming practices to protect production and rural livelihoods.

Tiu Laurel stressed that addressing El Niño is not only an agricultural concern but a national priority for safeguarding food security and market stability across the country.