By the end of April, at least 80 provinces will be affected by the ongoing El Niño, a phenomenon characterized by unusually warm ocean temperatures in the equatorial Pacific that disrupts weather patterns worldwide. This situation demands urgent attention — from the government, farmers, and the public in general. 

In the Philippines, El Niño manifests as prolonged dry spells, reduced rainfall, and scorching heat. And now that the country is in the hot dry season (March to May), the impact of El Niño becomes more pronounced.

El Niño is already wreaking havoc on agriculture. Crops wither, livestock suffer, and water sources dwindle, leaving the livelihoods of millions of farmers hanging in the balance. As of the latest report, El Niño has caused ₱1.75 billion in damages to the agricultural sector, affecting approximately 32,231 hectares of farmland. Immediate action is imperative.

Apart from its impact on agriculture, El Niño has resulted in scarcity of water supply. Communities struggle to meet their basic water needs as reservoirs shrink and rivers start to dry up. As temperature rises, demand for water rises. According to Task Force El Niño, Regions 1, 2, 3, 4-A, 4-B, 6, 9, and 12 are particularly vulnerable.

The rising temperatures pose health risks, especially for the vulnerable population. Heat-related illnesses become more prevalent. Local governments must prepare for potential emergencies.

To address El Niño-related challenges, the government must swiftly implement mitigation measures. These may include financial assistance to affected farmers like subsidies for seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs. It would be a big help if high-value seeds for drought-resistant crops are distributed to farmers affected by the El Niño.

With dwindling supply, water management is crucial. Investing in water-saving technologies, such as drip irrigation — using pipes with holes to slowly drip water onto plant roots — and rainwater harvesting is vital not only during the El Niño phenomenon but in the long-term.

Collaboration with local government units (LGUs) is another crucial step. The national government, in close coordination with the LGUs, should regularly assess water availability and prioritize allocation for essential needs.

It should also explore alternative water sources, such as shallow tube wells and communal irrigation systems; and educate citizens about water conservation and heat-related health precautions.

For farmers, it is crucial for them to adapt their crop choices by opting for drought-resistant varieties — drought-tolerant rice, sweet potatoes and other crops which can thrive in dry conditions. They also need to practice soil moisture conservation techniques, including mulching to retain soil moisture, and timely irrigation or watering crops during cooler hours to minimize evaporation.

Responsibility to address the impact of El Niño does not depend on the government and farmers alone. The public must contribute its share. Conserving water — repairing leaks, using rainwater for gardening, among others — is a simple measure the public can contribute and will serve us in good stead in the long run.

Aside from these mitigating measures, we must take health precautions during El Niño. We must stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water; and avoid heat exposure by limiting outdoor activities during peak heat hours. Extra care is needed by vulnerable individuals—the elderly, children, and those with health conditions.

The El Niño is a test of our resilience as a nation. By implementing proactive measures, fostering collaboration, and promoting awareness, we can mitigate its impact. 

Let us stand united, ensuring that no citizen suffers needlessly from the harmful effects of the relentless El Niño phenomenon.