The province of South Cotabato has officially declared a state of calamity following the devastating impact of the prolonged dry weather conditions attributed to the El Niño phenomenon. The declaration comes in response to the significant damages of over P200 million in crops and livestock, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated efforts to address the crisis.
The announcement was made by provincial legislators on April 26, with the Koronadal City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) also recommending a state of calamity declaration for the province’s capital on the same day. This move reflects the severity of the situation and the immediate response required to alleviate the hardships farmers and communities face.
According to the South Cotabato Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), the damages incurred are extensive, with crops bearing the brunt of the crisis. Corn, rice, and other high-value crops suffered losses of P157 million, while livestock-related damages were estimated at P6 million. Additionally, wildfires in the region have caused around P38 million in losses, exacerbating the already dire situation.
Vice Governor Arthur Pingoy emphasized the impact on local farmers, with nearly 3,000 individuals directly affected by the drought. Corn farmers in Tboli and Lake Sebu and rice fields in Surallah faced substantial losses, disrupting livelihoods and food security in the region.
The depletion of irrigation dams and declining river levels further exacerbated the crisis, affecting agricultural productivity and water supply for communities along the Allah River. Surallah and Banga towns experienced significant agricultural losses, with damages amounting to P71.8 million and P30.6 million, respectively.
The state of calamity declaration enables local authorities to mobilize resources for immediate relief efforts, including assisting affected farmers, ensuring food security, and initiating recovery initiatives to restore livelihoods and agricultural productivity in the region. This collaborative response is crucial in addressing the challenges posed by El Niño and building resilience against future climate-related crises.
