El Niño Threat Causes P117 Million in Agricultural Losses in Davao Region
The Department of Agriculture (DA) in the Davao Region reported approximately ₱117 million in agricultural losses since January 2026, attributed to moisture stress linked to the impending El Niño phenomenon. Rice crops accounted for ₱76 million of the damage, followed by corn at ₱26 million and high-value crops at ₱14 million. The towns of Matanao and Bansalan in Davao del Sur, along with Davao City, were identified as the hardest-hit areas due to severe water scarcity and declining dam levels. Officials noted that irrigation systems failed to reach certain fields as water was exhausted during initial distribution. Additionally, the DA is currently validating another ₱783 million in potential damages across Davao del Norte, Davao de Oro, and Davao City. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources is also investigating reported fish kills in Calinan, though a direct link to extreme temperatures remains unconfirmed. PAGASA indicates a 79% probability of El Niño onset, with heat indices reaching 40°C and below-normal rainfall expected to persist until early 2027. Mitigation efforts include intensified monitoring and assistance programs for affected farmers and fisherfolk.
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El Niño Threat Causes P117 Million in Agricultural Losses in Davao Region
The Department of Agriculture (DA) in the Davao Region reported approximately ₱117 million in agricultural losses since January 2026, attributed to moisture stress linked to the impending El Niño phenomenon. Rice crops accounted for ₱76 million of the damage, followed by corn at ₱26 million and high-value crops at ₱14 million. The towns of Matanao and Bansalan in Davao del Sur, along with Davao City, were identified as the hardest-hit areas due to severe water scarcity and declining dam levels. Officials noted that irrigation systems failed to reach certain fields as water was exhausted during initial distribution. Additionally, the DA is currently validating another ₱783 million in potential damages across Davao del Norte, Davao de Oro, and Davao City. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources is also investigating reported fish kills in Calinan, though a direct link to extreme temperatures remains unconfirmed. PAGASA indicates a 79% probability of El Niño onset, with heat indices reaching 40°C and below-normal rainfall expected to persist until early 2027. Mitigation efforts include intensified monitoring and assistance programs for affected farmers and fisherfolk.
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