Cebu gov forms task force amid ‘Super El Niño’ impact

Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro has created a specialized task force to oversee provincial preparations and response measures as prolonged dry conditions threaten the region through the first half of 2027.

Under Executive Order No. 57, series of 2026, the Super El Niño Task Force will lead inter-agency efforts to protect the province’s water supply, agricultural output, energy resources, public health, and vulnerable local communities.

Baricuatro cited a 23 September advisory from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reporting active, strong El Niño conditions in the tropical Pacific.

PAGASA climate models indicate the weather phenomenon could intensify into a “very strong” El Niño by late 2026 and persist through the first half of 2027.

Provincial officials warned that potential impacts include critical water shortages, crop and fisheries losses, heat-related health issues and disruptions to essential public services.

The task force’s mandates include monitoring weather patterns, identifying high-risk local communities, assessing water supply availability, and coordinating emergency water distribution.

It will also manage agricultural assistance, health systems readiness, resource mobilization, and public awareness campaigns.

The team will coordinate with municipal governments, national government agencies, and water utility providers across Cebu province to align mitigation measures.

Retired Col. Dennis Francis V. Pastor, head of the Cebu Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), will chair the task force, with Provincial Administrator Joseph Felix Mari H. Durano serving as vice chairperson.

Members include provincial department heads and regional representatives from the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

The PDRRMO will serve as the task force’s secretariat.