PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan (PIA) -- The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) will spearhead a task force to mitigate the impacts of climate change in various sectors in the province of Palawan.

In a committee hearing on January 9, it was agreed that the council would head the task force, and secretariat tasks would be given to the PDRRM Office.

Board member Ryan Maminta said the province needs long-term programs that will address the problems caused by climate change and underscore sustainability through the collective efforts of agencies.

“Dapat ang direksyon natin ay long-term plans and programs that will also provide long-term solutions, leading to resiliency in terms of food security, the environment at other sectors ay makinabang talaga,” he said.

Some of the concerns raised by agencies as a result of the observed impact of climate change are the possibility of forest fires, water safety, harmful algal blooms, and diseases of seaweeds.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that a dry spell will be experienced in January based on the trend observed by the weather bureau, and rainfall will normalize by June.

Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Romeo Cabungcal assured that the province has a sufficient volume of rice and will not experience shortages for up to 11 months.

Some measures suggested by the PDRRMO include rehabilitation of the water system, protection of water sources, establishment of water impounding, and a campaign for urban planning.

PDRRM Officer Jerry Alili is set to call for a special meeting to discuss the task force with the members of the council. (RG/PIA Mimaropa - Palawan)