Cagayan Valley agencies coordinate El Niño mitigation measures

Agriculture agencies and local government units in Cagayan Valley have stepped up coordination on measures to cushion the impact of El Niño on farmers and agricultural production, with irrigation management, supplemental water sources and alternative cropping strategies among the interventions discussed.

The Department of Agriculture Regional Field Office 2 (DA-RFO 2) convened member agencies and partner institutions on October 8 for the third-quarter business meeting of the Department of Agriculture Regional Management Committee 2 (DA RMC 2) at its multipurpose cooperative hall in San Gabriel, Tuguegarao City.

The meeting brought together regional agencies, institutions and provincial local government units to discuss ongoing programs and interventions for the agriculture and fisheries sector, including preparations for the potential effects of prolonged dry conditions.

National Irrigation Administration Region 2 Operations Section Chief Engr. Josefina G. Guray presented the agency's measures to maintain irrigation water supply and improve water distribution amid climate-related challenges.

These include the installation of shallow tube wells and the deployment of mobile solar-powered irrigation pumps to provide supplemental water in areas where existing supplies may be insufficient.

The agency is also coordinating with local governments and other institutions, promoting alternative cropping strategies and adjusting planting calendars to match available water resources.

Water conservation measures, including alternate wetting and drying for rice fields and irrigation scheduling, are also being implemented alongside canal desiltation and the deployment of equipment to improve water conveyance.

NIA Region 2 is also pursuing infrastructure interventions to strengthen irrigation systems and providing support to farmers and Irrigators' Associations through market linkages and livelihood assistance.

DA RMC 2 Chairperson and Regional Executive Director Dr. Rose Mary G. Aquino emphasized the need to translate preparedness plans into concrete interventions that directly benefit farmers, fisherfolk, livestock raisers and consumers.

The committee also discussed measures to contain African swine fever (ASF) in the region, with participating agencies underscoring the need for continued coordination and preventive measures to protect the livestock industry.

Meanwhile, DA-RFO 2 Field Operations Division Chief Dr. Marvin B. Luis presented activities lined up for the National Rice Awareness Month celebration in November, which seeks to highlight rice production and the role of farmers in ensuring food security.

The meeting focused on coordinating government interventions across the region as agricultural communities prepare for climate-related challenges, particularly the possible effects of El Niño on irrigation water availability and crop production.