DA sets aside P9.7 billion for El Niño response

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has allocated P9.7 billion to prepare for the "very strong" El Niño season expected next month. This funding is divided between P6.2 billion for fuel and fertilizer intervention for farmers and fisherfolk, and an additional P3.5 billion to support solar irrigation projects across the nation. The resources will be sourced from the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food and Transport (UPLIFT) program, aimed at assisting vulnerable populations impacted by fuel shortages.

A spokesperson for the DA, Arnel de Mesa, confirmed that the agency has received a Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) from the Department of Budget and Management to commence the distribution of fuel and fertilizer support. The funds will be distributed as follows: P2.2 billion for biofertilizers, P1 billion each for fuel assistance to farmers and fisherfolk, P1 billion under the Presidential Assistance for Farmers and Fisherfolk (PAFF), and P1 billion for fuel subsidies to agri-transport.

De Mesa noted that an extra P3.5 billion has been requested to expand solar irrigation in regions less affected by El Niño, where irrigation infrastructure is lacking. The Department awaits the release of the Special Allotment Order (SARO) from the DBM to proceed with the project implementation. The DA anticipates receiving clearance within the fourth quarter, ahead of El Niño's onset in October.

According to the weather agency PAGASA, the extreme El Niño event is expected to begin by October and may intensify during the first half of the following year. The last significant El Niño occurred in 2024, causing P15.3 billion in agricultural damage and resulting in a 3.3 percent drop in the country's agriculture and fisheries production.