By I. Inojales | 01:10 PM April 24, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY — The provincial government of Bohol has strengthened its preparedness efforts for the possible onset of El Niño, focusing on food security, water management, and agricultural resilience.
During the April 24, 2026 episode of The Capitol Reports at the Provincial Capitol, officials highlighted coordinated interventions to mitigate the effects of prolonged dry conditions.
Board Member Dionisio Joseph Balite, PAGASA Bohol head Leonardo Samar, and Assistant Provincial Agriculturist Larry Pamugas led the discussion, emphasizing early preparation and inter-agency cooperation.
Samar said there is a high probability of El Niño developing within the next two to three months, with possible effects lasting until early 2027, based on data from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). He warned of dry spells that may affect water supply, agriculture, and livelihoods.
Pamugas assured that the agriculture sector is prepared, noting that the province has around 160 days of rice buffer stock. He also encouraged food diversification, promotion of drought-resilient crops, and reduced food waste through the “ABAKADA” guide.
He added that farmers are being urged to register under the RSBSA to access assistance, including crop insurance from the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation, and to coordinate with LGUs for interventions like cloud seeding.
The province is also working with national agencies such as the Department of Agriculture, Department of Agrarian Reform, and Bureau of Soils and Water Management to ensure support for farmers.
Officials stressed that early action, coordination, and community participation are key to reducing El Niño’s potential impact in Bohol.
