QUEZON CITY, (PIA) – At least 65 provinces, representing approximately 77 percent of the Philippines, are expected to experience drought by May 2024 due to a “strong” El Niño phenomenon, according to Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr.
Solidum made the announcement on Tuesday, December 12, during a briefing at Malacañang Palace following a sectoral meeting with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. He explained that “moderate to severe drought conditions” are anticipated from February to May 2024, impacting the majority of the country.
He further elaborated that approximately six provinces (7 percent) are facing the potential for “dry spell” conditions, which are less severe than droughts.
Solidum warned that Northern Luzon could experience scorching temperatures reaching 41 degrees Celsius (105.8 degrees Fahrenheit) in April or May, with the heat index potentially rising by an additional 5 to 15 degrees.
He also shared temperature forecasts for other regions: Metro Manila (38.3 degrees Celsius), lowland Luzon (39.9 degrees Celsius), and Mindanao (39.5 degrees Celsius) in April.
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Solidum acknowledged the strong El Niño prediction for next year and emphasized the need for preparedness across various sectors.
“We need to further intensify our efforts to ensure we are ready for this, especially in areas like health, water, agriculture, sanitation, and peace and order,” said Solidum.
“We also need everyone’s involvement in this effort,” he added.
President Marcos, responding to the El Niño forecast, instructed government agencies to coordinate plans to mitigate potential impacts. He specifically highlighted addressing possible issues related to water, agriculture, energy, health, security, and education, according to Solidum.
In line with this, the president has ordered the creation of ‘Task Force El Niño’ to be led by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).
The establishment of the said coordinating body is necessitated by the importance of tapping a whole-of-government approach to mitigate the impacts of the phenomenon on the environment, economic security, and public safety.
“We’ll have to organize first the task force. This is the time to put every condition together,” said Marcos, urging everyone to take part in the active efforts of the government to enhance the climate resilience of the country.
To ensure minimal disruption across the country, the Philippine government is proactively preparing for the anticipated El Niño phenomenon and encouraging public awareness and collaboration.
Following this initiative, the development of a holistic information campaign that will intensify the promotion of ecological responsibility in communities has been projected especially in areas of efficient resource consumption and conservation. (JMP/PIA-NCR)
