PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. will personally oversee the government’s response and direct inter-agency preparations for the impending “Super El Niño” dry spell set to affect the country, Malacañang announced Thursday.
During a press briefing at Malacañang, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro confirmed that the Chief Executive is actively guiding response strategies.
“He leads the meetings and issues the directives on what needs to be done,” Castro stated in Tagalog, adding that discussions are ongoing regarding which specific agency will head the specialized Task Force El Niño.
Key departments and agencies actively coordinating for the mitigation plan include the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA), Department of Agriculture (DA), National Irrigation Administration (NIA), National Water Resources Board (NWRB), and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
The administration has earmarked funds specifically for targeted El Niño interventions.
These allocations will focus on early climate warnings, agricultural support, food security, irrigation management, potable water supply maintenance, and direct social protection for vulnerable sectors.
Alongside state preparations, Malacañang urged the public to actively participate in conservation efforts to mitigate the impact of the severe weather pattern.
“You can rest assured that the government is fulfilling its duties,” Castro noted.
“However, we also need the help of our fellow countrymen. Conserving water in your households will be a massive help to the overall effort,” added Castro.