Manila, Philippines — The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has placed the entire country under an El Niño Alert due to current neutral El Niño–Southern Oscillation conditions.
Because of this, there is now a 79% chance that El Niño will occur during the June–July–August season, with conditions possibly persisting until early 2027.
According to PAGASA, the weather pattern is expected to bring drier-than-normal conditions in several parts of the country, increasing the risk of dry spells and drought.
Authorities continue to closely monitor the situation and are urging the public to prepare for potential impacts in the coming months.
PROVINCE OF CAGAYAN PLACED UNDER STATE OF CALAMITY DUE TO EL NIÑO EFFECTS AND ENERGY CRISIS
Meanwhile, the province of Cagayan has officially been placed under a State of Calamity due to the combined effects of El Niño and an ongoing energy crisis.
The declaration was approved by the Cagayan Municipality through Resolution No. 2026-12-452, following the recommendation of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC).
According to PDRRMC, authorities reported over P10.29-B damages to agriculture and fisheries, affecting thousands of farmers and fisherfolk. At least 1,893 rice farmers and 628 corn farmers have been impacted, alongside widespread water shortages and drought conditions.
Acting Governor Vice Governor Manuel Mamba has called for additional support from the national government.
He said the local government will be able to use funds allocated under the Quick Response Fund (QRF) to implement initiatives that will help provide immediate assistance or aid to the most affected sectors.
It also called on lending and financing institutions to implement relief measures, such as deferment or a moratorium on loan payments for affected clients.—Grachella Corazon, Eurotv News