El Niño Threatens Philippines with Blackouts, Higher Power Bills
Politics

El Niño Threatens Philippines with Blackouts, Higher Power Bills

The Philippines faces record heat from a 'super El Niño,' with the Department of Energy warning of frequent blackouts and higher electricity bills. Strained coal-fired plants and depleted water for hydropower are concerns, prompting calls for public energy conservation.

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  • DA: Strong El Niño not enough to hike commodity prices

    The Department of Agriculture (DA) stated that even a strong El Niño, potentially lasting until mid-2027, is not sufficient grounds for commodity price hikes due to adequate food supplies. The government will monitor for price manipulation and hoarding.

  • PH Rice Stocks Down 8% in September Amid El Niño Preparations

    Philippine rice stocks fell 8% year-on-year to 1.91 million metric tons in September 2026, as the country braces for a severe El Niño. Declines were observed in National Food Authority (NFA) warehouses and household inventories.

  • DA Seeks Higher Corn Import Quota Amid El Niño Threat

    The Philippine Department of Agriculture is proposing to increase the country's minimum access volume (MAV) for corn from 220,000 metric tons to 500,000 metric tons. This move aims to cushion hog and poultry producers from rising feed costs due to the looming El Niño threat and ensure protein supply for consumers.

  • State of Calamity Declared in 106 Philippine Areas Due to Intensifying El Niño

    A state of calamity has been declared in 106 areas across the Philippines as intensifying dry conditions driven by the El Niño phenomenon continue to worsen. Agricultural damage has exceeded P5.56 billion, affecting over 388,000 people. The weather bureau warns El Niño could persist until June next year.