The provincial government of Cotabato in the Philippines is actively preparing for the impacts of the ongoing El Niño phenomenon, which is expected to bring drought conditions to the region. Governor Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza has directed local disaster risk reduction and management councils to reactivate their El Niño task forces.
Key preparedness measures include the implementation of water conservation protocols and the preparation for cloud seeding operations to induce rainfall. The province is focusing on securing water supplies for agricultural and domestic use, as the dry spell threatens crop yields and water reservoirs.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), a weak to moderate El Niño is currently affecting the country and is likely to persist in the coming months. The agency has warned of below-normal rainfall conditions in several areas, including parts of Mindanao where Cotabato is located.
Local authorities are advising farmers to adjust planting calendars and consider drought-resistant crop varieties. The provincial government is also coordinating with national agencies to provide support and resources to vulnerable communities potentially affected by water shortages and agricultural losses.
