The Cebu Provincial Government is implementing a five-point intervention plan to protect agriculture and fisheries as dry conditions linked to El Niño threaten livelihoods and food supply.
Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Roldan Saragena said the measures, directed by Governor Pamela Baricuatro, focus on ensuring water access, sustaining food production, and supporting small producers during prolonged dry spells.
A key component of the plan is the deployment of small-scale irrigation support, including water pumps with 4,000-liter capacity and hoses.
“We will provide water pumps, and this comes as a package with a 4,000-liter capacity and hoses,” Saragena said.
He explained that the equipment will allow farmers to tap remaining water sources in upland and rural areas.
“Ang atong mga kabukiran or mga kasapaan dili pa jud entirely nga mo dry up, still makakonekta ta og tubig para magamit sa atong mga kaumahan,” he added.
The province will also distribute 200-liter water drums to serve as on-site storage, helping farmers sustain vegetable production and maintain harvest schedules.
“Naa’y ma-harvest sa saktong panahon with the provisions of these water reservoirs in their farms,” Saragena said.
To boost food supply, the government will roll out P10.5 million worth of fast-growing vegetable seeds, including lettuce, kangkong, pechay, okra, and pepper, which can be harvested within 15 to 20 days.
“Mga utanon nga ma-harvest nato within 15 to 20 days… mao ni ang dali-dali ra kaayo nga kinahanglan sa atong household,” he said.
The seeds will be distributed through the Food Always In The Home (FAITH) program, which promotes household-level food sufficiency.
For the fisheries sector, the province is constructing 200 payaos, or fish aggregating devices, to improve catch efficiency for small-scale fisherfolk.
“Ang isda sa atong kadagatan kay katag na sila… unless magbutang ta og payaw,” Saragena said.
He added that the devices will help reduce fuel costs and time spent locating fishing grounds.
“Maka-save pa sila og fuel… dili na magsigsuroy-suroy mangita sa isda,” he said.
The plan also includes a fully subsidized insurance program for farmers and fisherfolk to provide financial protection against climate-related losses.
“Ang Cebu Provincial Government will pay the entire cost of insurance,” Saragena said.
He said the initiative aims to provide a safety net for vulnerable sectors as the province braces for the effects of El Niño. (SBA)
Photo courtesy of Industry Strategic Science & Technology Program Information System
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