• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Office of Civil Defense-Negros Island Region (OCD-NIR) is stepping up its preparations for the anticipated Super El Niño by prepositioning bottled water and distributing generator sets to vulnerable communities, particularly in areas expected to experience severe drought.
OCD-NIR Regional Director Donato Sermeno said on Thursday, Nov. 12 they are focusing preparations on ensuring water availability and energy security, especially in fifth-class municipalities that may face difficulties during prolonged dry conditions.
Sermeno said bottled water, with a budget allocation of P1.86 million, is being prepared for distribution, with Negros Oriental among the priority areas based on the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) forecast.
Each family is expected to receive 6.6 liters of bottled water as part of the contingency measures.
“We are prepositioning the water now in anticipation of possible water shortages,” Sermeno said.
The OCD-NIR also started to distribute 12 generator sets with a capacity of 7.5 kilovolt-amperes each to help ensure electricity supply in affected communities in La Carlota City, La Castellana, and Don Salvador Benedicto in Negros Occidental.
Among the areas being considered for priority assistance are Candoni and Valladolid in Negros Occidental as well as communities affected by volcanic activity in Canlaon City, Negros Oriental.
Sermeno said the agency is closely monitoring five major areas of concern, including water supply, health, peace and order, food security, and energy security.
He added that the Task Force El Niño continues to update its activities and coordinate interventions with the national government.
Despite PAGASA’s forecast of below-normal rainfall and drought conditions in parts of Negros Oriental, Sermeno said the effects of El Niño have yet to become visibly pronounced in the agricultural sector.
He noted that crops in areas such as Bayawan City remain green and farmers are continuing to harvest.
“There is still water available, and we have not yet seen a significant impact on agriculture,” he said.
However, he acknowledged that the region has recorded more than P40 million in damages associated with the dry conditions. | GPB
