The Antique Office of the Provincial Agriculturist is advising farmers to grow drought-resistant crops in preparation for the possible effects of El Niño.

Christian Dubria said farmers are being encouraged to take precautions, although no water-related damages have been reported in the agricultural sector so far.

“One of the possible impacts of the El Niño is losses in crop production due to the water scarcity,” he said.

Drought-resistant and early-maturing rice varieties, such as Pagsanjan (PSB Rc10), are recommended for planting. Farmers are also advised to insure their crops with the Philippine Crop Insurance Corp. for claims in case of damage.

Vegetables like squash, camote, and other root crops that require less water are also suggested for cultivation.

Dubria said the Bantay Dagat task force should remain vigilant, as El Niño could affect the province’s fisheries. “The heat could also cause fish kill,” he added.

He also said the Bantay Peste Brigade, composed of farmers and barangay leaders, should report immediately to their Municipal Agriculture Office if they detect pest infestations, such as rice black bug.

Authorities hope these measures will help mitigate the impact of the drought on both farming and fishing communities.

Source - https://thechronicle.com.ph