The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) had already predicted back in May that the El Niño weather phenomenon, known for its extended dry spell, would likely emerge in June and persist until the first quarter of next year. Considering the negative impact of El Niño on people’s health and livelihood, particularly in agriculture, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) directed concerned government agencies to prepare and implement necessary measures to minimize its impact. However, it seems that the government did not take its own advice seriously, as the National Action Plan to mitigate the adverse effects of El Niño has yet to be finalized, and the NDRRMC will only convene the National El Niño Team on July 19.
One cannot help but question the sense of urgency exhibited by the government. They were aware of the impending El Niño months in advance, and the Philippines has experienced the devastating effects of this weather phenomenon before, which could worsen due to climate change. Did the government agencies responsible for preparing for this event wait for Pagasa’s official announcement on July 4 before taking action and formulating a mitigation plan? It seems like valuable time has already been wasted.
The effects of El Niño are already being felt, particularly in agricultural areas where the lack of rain has resulted in reduced harvests and increased selling prices, contributing to high inflation rates. By the end of June, dry spells had already hit Apayao, Kalinga, and Cagayan provinces, while dry conditions were observed in the rice-producing provinces of Isabela and Tarlac. This will likely lead to a potential increase in the price of rice. Additionally, Maynilad Water Services Inc. has started daily water supply interruptions in its concession area, affecting around 600,000 customers.
Back in May, when Pagasa started closely monitoring El Niño, the government could have launched a more aggressive campaign to encourage households and commercial enterprises to conserve water. This could have slowed down the drawdown from Angat Dam, which supplies 95 percent of the water needs of the National Capital Region. Conservation measures may not have completely prevented supply interruptions, but they could have minimized the extent. Unfortunately, little action was taken.
It is important to note that even a “mild” El Niño, like the one expected this year, can still have significant impact. In 2019, a “weak” El Niño caused damage and losses worth P5.05 billion, affecting rice and corn production and vast farmlands in multiple provinces. The Philippines should have already made preparedness for El Niño and other natural disasters a priority, especially when experts have consistently emphasized the importance of proactive measures. However, planning and action are often delayed, and once the disaster is over, they are forgotten.
For example, in 2019, when it became clear that there would be a “full-blown” El Niño, talks about creating a Department of Water to address water supply issues and mitigate the effects of El Niño were extended by the Duterte administration. There were also discussions about conservation campaigns, the installation of water tank systems, establishment of water treatment plants, dredging of waterways, and the regulation of water and river basins. Unfortunately, little progress has been made on these proposed measures, and they are likely to be brought up again during meetings this week.
The question now is whether these measures will actually be implemented or if they will become another case of empty promises. It is crucial for the government to take immediate and decisive action to minimize the impact of El Niño and prioritize the well-being of its people.
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