• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Department of Agriculture-Negros Island Region (DA-NIR) has temporarily suspended its planned cloud seeding operations for Negros Occidental and Panay, following the onset of the rainy season although funds remain available should dry conditions intensify in the coming months.
DA-NIR Regional Executive Director Jose Albert Barrogo said preparations for cloud seeding were initially made in response to forecasts from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) indicating the possible development of the El Niño phenomenon.
According to PAGASA projections, El Niño may develop between July and August and could persist until the first quarter of next year, posing risks to rain-fed farms and agricultural areas with limited irrigation systems.
“Because of PAGASA’s projections, we prepared for cloud seeding operations. However, since rains have already started and it is now the rainy season, the operation has been put on hold,” Barrogo said.
The DA-NIR has allocated P6 million for cloud seeding activities, which will remain on standby and can be activated if prolonged dry spells occur.
Barrogo said the agency will continue monitoring PAGASA weather advisories before determining whether artificial rainmaking operations will be necessary.
“If the El Niño becomes severe, we are ready. If it does not happen, the funds will simply remain available and ready for use when needed,” he added.
While the DA has announced the reactivation of the Task Force El Niño, Barrogo said the regional office is still awaiting a memorandum from Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. detailing specific directives and interventions.
“Before we can conduct any cloud seeding operation, a memorandum will still be needed. It is not being prioritized right now because it is already the rainy season,” he said.
The DA reported that at least 15 areas, mostly in Luzon, are already experiencing moisture stress, with agricultural damage surpassing P3 billion, particularly in rain-fed corn-producing regions. | GB
