Cagayan agencies outline El Niño preparations at provincial task force meeting
Provincial officials and national agencies outlined preparations for a potential Very Strong El Niño, including support for farmers, fishers, hospitals and families, at a task force meeting on 6 November at Tuguegarao City, Cagayan.
The Provincial Government of Cagayan convened the meeting through its Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office under Executive Order No. 36, Series of 2026. The gathering at the Governor’s Office Main Conference Hall focused on coordinating drought and heat mitigation measures and response plans.
The Office of the Provincial Agriculturist proposed acquiring mobile solar-powered pumps and water pumps to support irrigation. Its plans for farmers also include distributing mungbean and assorted vegetable seeds and conducting livelihood training. For fishers, the office is preparing to distribute tilapia and catfish fingerlings, fishing gear and nets.
The meeting also covered the organization of four sectoral technical working groups and proposed plans for food and water security, public health, and public safety and fire prevention.
The Provincial Health Office presented measures for 12 district hospitals, including ensuring access to clean water and adequate food for patients, as officials prepare for a possible rise in illnesses linked to extreme heat. The provincial social welfare office said food packs and stockpiles are ready to support families needing urgent assistance.
The National Irrigation Administration Region II was represented by Engineering and Operations Division Manager Engr. Orlando R. Espejo and Operations Section Chief Engr. Josefina G. Guray. Also attending for the NIA Cagayan-Batanes Irrigation Management Office were Engr. Glenn Sherwin Rubino and Engr. Bryan Cabbab.
NIA’s participation highlighted the role of irrigation management in maintaining water supplies for agriculture and helping farming communities prepare for climate-related disruptions.
The task force is scheduled to meet again on November 20 to continue monitoring, planning and coordinating the province’s preparations.