By Lordee Gomez/UM Intern
THE CITY Agriculturist’s Office (CAgrO) identified the barangays in Marilog and Paquibato districts as ‘very’ vulnerable to the potentially devastating impact of El Niño.
The two districts are known for their substantial and hefty production of cash crops such as rice, corn, and vegetables, which are highly dependent on sufficient water supply.
Edgardo Haspe, the department’s acting head, laid down the specific preparations against drought during the Ispeak media forum at City Hall on May 18.
He said they would distribute Information materials in conspicuous places in the barangays. The peripherals include flyers, leaflets, and tarpaulins, primarily to raise awareness and for the farmers to know how to mitigate the adverse impact of El Niño.
Haspe also acknowledged the coordinated efforts of the city and national government agencies like the Department of Agriculture, the National Electrification Administration, and the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC). The PCIC initiated the enrollment of farmers for insurance coverage.
In addition, irrigation facilities, including 60 water pumps and 72 power sprays, were installed and established in various barangays as a preventive measure.
“Pwede pa ta maka lay down ta ug additional PE pipes para ma expand ang coverage sa irrigation facilities (We can still lay down additional PE pipes to expand the coverage of the irrigation facilities),” Haspe added. He said they anticipate a possible shortage of food crops and supplies from the two districts as El Niño is expected to start in the third quarter of 2023 until the first quarter of next year.
