South Cotabato Steps Up El Niño Preparations Amid Drought Concerns

South Cotabato has stepped up preparations for a possible strong El Niño event, with disaster officials keeping funds, water facilities, and relief supplies ready as the prolonged heat and dry conditions threaten farms, livestock, and public health. Rolly Doane Aquino, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) chief, said that the province has been regularly meeting with the governor to discuss contingency plans for El Niño. The PDRRMO, with the support of the provincial government, is planning to ensure water supply, improve irrigation facilities, and encourage farmers to shift to drought-resistant crops to mitigate the effects of El Niño. Public health impacts are also a concern, with measures to prevent waterborne diseases and heatstroke being implemented. Efforts are also underway to encourage farmers to secure alternative water sources and switch to drought-resistant varieties to minimize damage to crops. South Cotabato is one of the major agricultural regions in the Philippines, and the impact of El Niño could have ripple effects throughout the regional economy.