Damage to Agriculture in Oriental Mindoro due to Dry Spell Exceeds P415 Million
The ongoing dry spell in Calapan City has caused significant damage to agriculture in Oriental Mindoro, with losses amounting to more than P415 million, according to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO). Vinscent Gahol, the head of PDRRMO, reported on Friday, March 15, that the Provincial Agriculturist Office estimated the total damage to be P415,421,044.35 as of March 13.
The figures provided are based on reports submitted by the municipal agriculture offices from the four towns in the province. The damages encompass both total and partial destruction of capital assets and infrastructure, including animal sheds, storage facilities, ice plants, irrigation systems, and inventory of agricultural inputs, equipment, machinery, and raw materials for production. The valuation of damages is based on the cost of replacement or repair of destroyed structures or equipment at pre-disaster prices. Agricultural products, on the other hand, are valued at pre-disaster farm gate prices.
Several crops have been severely affected by the dry spell, including palay (rice), red onions, melons, eggplants, ampalaya (bitter gourd), squash, mung beans, bananas, sweet potatoes, corn, bush sitao, and watermelons. The impact of the El Niño phenomenon has been particularly felt in Bulalacao town, where 1,279 farmers from 12 barangays (villages) have been affected. Mansalay town has also experienced significant losses, with 1,069 farmers affected in 12 villages. Additionally, the towns of Bongabong and Pinamalayan reported 35 and 45 affected farmers, respectively.
Gahol mentioned that they are still awaiting reports from other towns in the province. The initial reports received are from the southernmost towns, which are currently facing drought conditions due to insufficient rainfall. The drying up of most river systems in the area has exacerbated the situation.
In light of the extensive damages, Gahol emphasized the need to discuss the matter with Governor Humerlito Dolor to plan for potential interventions by the provincial government. It is crucial to address the immediate needs of the affected farmers and explore strategies to mitigate the impact of the dry spell on the agricultural sector.
The current situation in Oriental Mindoro highlights the vulnerability of agricultural communities to climate-related events such as drought. The loss of crops not only affects the livelihoods of farmers but also has broader implications for food security and the local economy. It is essential for local authorities to collaborate with relevant agencies and stakeholders to develop comprehensive disaster risk reduction and management strategies. These strategies should include measures to improve water resource management, promote climate-resilient farming practices, and provide support and assistance to affected farmers.
Furthermore, it is vital to raise awareness about the importance of climate change adaptation and mitigation measures among farmers and the wider community. This includes promoting sustainable agricultural practices, diversifying crops, and exploring alternative livelihood options. By building resilience and adaptive capacity, communities can better withstand the challenges posed by climate change and ensure a more sustainable future for the agricultural sector.
In conclusion, the dry spell in Calapan City has caused significant damage to agriculture in Oriental Mindoro, with losses exceeding P415 million. The affected crops and farmers in various towns highlight the urgent need for intervention and support from the provincial government. It is crucial to prioritize the well-being of farmers and develop long-term strategies to enhance the resilience of the agricultural sector in the face of climate-related challenges.
Source: The Manila Times
