The local government of this Albay province capital intensified its climate adaptation efforts by gathering more than 100 farmers, fisherfolk, and community stakeholders for an El Niño Information Caravan on Friday, aimed at equipping vulnerable sectors with strategies to lessen the impact of the prolonged dry spell on livelihoods, health and water resources.

In an interview, Mayor Hisham Ismail said the city has been preparing months ahead of the expected El Niño, particularly by ensuring water supply systems remain operational.

“We have long prepared for the expected El Niño. We deployed engineers to inspect all solar-powered water systems established by the city government and the Department of Public Works and Highways. Any damaged water pumps or solar panels are being repaired, while systems needing maintenance are being cleaned,” he said.

Ismail said the city also acquired a water tanker to support rationing operations in communities experiencing inadequate or disrupted supply.

CDRRMO chief Miladee Azur said participants were briefed on the proper planting calendar, distribution of drought-resistant crop varieties, water conservation practices, livestock protection measures, crop insurance, and other government assistance programs designed to sustain agricultural productivity despite prolonged dry conditions.

Health authorities also emphasized measures to prevent heat-related illnesses, control disease outbreaks, and protect children, senior citizens, and persons with underlying medical conditions.

She urged residents to conserve water, collect rainwater safely using covered containers to prevent mosquito breeding, avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat, and regularly monitor weather advisories issued by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.

City Agriculturist Sheila Nas encouraged farmers to shift to organic fertilizers, noting that synthetic fertilizers become less effective during extreme heat and limited water availability, increasing the risk of crop damage.

“The knowledge they gained from this caravan will help them become more prepared and apply climate-smart farming practices in their own communities,” she said.

Farmer Rogelio Barajas, 68, of Barangay Mabinit, said the activity helped them understand the necessary preparations before the expected Super El Niño.

“We now know what to do even before El Niño arrives. We are worried because our livelihood depends on farming, but through this caravan the government has already guided us on the necessary preparations. We have already started planting early so our crops will not be severely affected,” he said.

Fisher Rodel Bronosa, 52, of Barangay Banquerohan and chairperson of the City Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council, said the caravan discussions provided practical measures to reduce climate-related risks, prevent fish kills, protect livelihoods, and contribute to food security.

“As fisherfolk, we are among the most vulnerable sectors during weather disturbances. This caravan is important because it teaches us how to manage the impacts of climate change and protect our means of livelihood,” he said. (PNA)