The Cebu Provincial Government is ramping up preparations after the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration raised an El Niño alert, warning of possible dry conditions in the coming months.
Governor Pamela Baricuatro said the province has begun coordinating interventions to cushion the impact on communities that may be affected by prolonged heat and reduced rainfall.
“We have been briefed about it a few weeks ago, about the El Niño,” Baricuatro said, noting that early discussions allowed the provincial government to start planning even before the alert was formally issued.
She said the effects of rising temperatures are already being felt across Cebu.
“It’s a very challenging situation, init kaayo. In fact, diri sa Capitol we’ve been told by our agriculturist to don’t cut the trees during this time kay init kaayo,” she said.
Baricuatro said the province continues to work within its limitations, particularly in water management, as Cebu lacks major storage infrastructure such as dams.
“How I wish we have dams, naa tay reservoir of water so dako untag matabang karon. But unfortunately, we just want to make do of what we have,” she said.
Despite this, she said the provincial government has the financial capacity to roll out assistance programs, citing available support funds and ongoing coordination with national agencies to secure additional resources if needed.
“We’re currently having our Climate Summit… we have to consult also our private sectors,” she added, stressing the need for collaboration beyond government.
Water security remains a central concern, with provincial officials exploring both immediate measures and long-term solutions to address supply gaps.
Baricuatro said proposed dam projects have already secured approval from the Regional Development Council and funding from the Department of Public Works and Highways, with feasibility studies now underway.
“It’s already been approved by RDC and it’s already been budgeted by DPWH… after mahuman ang FS, we will execute right away,” she said.
She also expressed confidence in the capability of engineers handling the projects to develop sustainable water systems for the province.
Based on climate projections, El Niño may develop between June and August and could persist into early 2027, increasing the likelihood of below-normal rainfall.
Authorities warned that these conditions could lead to dry spells or drought, potentially affecting agriculture, water supply, and economic activity if not properly managed. (SBA)
Image courtesy of PNA
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