KORONADAL CITY — The Department of Agriculture in Region 12 has begun prepositioning drought-resistant seeds and irrigation equipment as part of early preparations for a possible El Niño event.

Engr. Erwin Arguelles, DA-12 field operations chief, said the agency is prioritizing areas most vulnerable to dry conditions based on mapping data.

“We will focus interventions on vulnerable areas identified through our mapping,” he said.

Among the measures being rolled out are mobile solar-powered irrigation systems and training programs on water management to help farmers adapt to potential dry spells.

A newly activated command center at the Prime Regional Government Center in Koronadal now serves as the region’s hub for climate monitoring and response planning.

While no direct effects have been recorded, forecasts indicate a 50 to 60 percent probability of El Niño developing in the coming months.

The preparations follow the 2024 El Niño, which caused about P2.2 billion in agricultural losses across 45,780 hectares in SOCCSKSARGEN and affected more than 45,000 farmers.

In response, the government released P210 million in aid, but officials said proactive measures are needed to reduce future losses.

Farmers are urged to report crop damage promptly to ensure inclusion in government assistance programs.