MANILA – The entire province of Cebu was placed under a state of calamity on Monday due to the effect of weather pattern El Niño on crops.
Provincial officials have approved a resolution declaring a state of calamity and have allocated P59 million for the relief and assistance of affected farmers and fishermen.
Initial assessment shows that 27 local government units have reported damages to crops and fishing.
There has also been a reported drastic decrease in the water supply of several towns for the past months, with some areas implementing water rationing.
State weather bureau PAGASA last week warned that the effects of El Niño, a weather pattern associated with reduced rainfall, would become more drastic during the summer season.
It also noted that the rainy season for this year will be delayed, with El Niño expected to last until June.
The Philippines has been experiencing reduced rainfall since February, with several provinces suffering from dry spell and drought. (ABS-CBN News)
