Farmers in Calabarzon are facing significant challenges as they grapple with the aftermath of the recent El Niño, which dried up their fields and devastated their crops.
According to the Department of Agriculture (DA) Region 4A, the region has incurred damages amounting to more than P400 million.
This figure reflects only the recorded losses from crops that were planted but failed due to lack of water. The actual opportunity losses, including those who couldn't plant at all, were not accounted for fully.
"'Yung na-record lang 'yun na nagtanim, pero 'yung opportunity loss na nawala [ay] yun ang hindi nakwenta. 'Yung hindi na nagtanim dahil walang patubig [at] mga hindi na nag-alaga ng hayop dahil walang pagkain," Fidel Libao, Director of DA-4A, said.
While the losses in Calabarzon are substantial, they are less severe reportedly compared to other rice-producing regions where damages have reached billions of pesos.
"Mas kokonti kami rito sa Calabarzon kumpara sa mga rice area region; ang lalaki ng damage nila talaga... bilyon ang naging epekto," Libao said.
LA NIÑA
DA now faces the challenge of preparing for the rainy season, which is currently their primary focus.
They are monitoring weather patterns closely to mitigate potential risks from pests and the upcoming La Niña, which could pose further threats to agricultural productivity.
RICE PRICES
Meanwhile, rice prices in some markets remain high, fluctuating above P50 per kilo.
The National Food Authority (NFA) has been tasked with buffer stocking to ensure sufficient supply during crises and emergencies.
"Ang naging function na lang ng NFA ay buffer stocking. Kung saan kami ang nagme-maintain ng sapat na supply ng bigas sa panahon ng mga kalamidad at krisis," Atty. Mark Callanta, Officer in Charge Regional Manager of NFA-4A, said.
The government continues to study and address these issues, as discussed in the forum with DA and its attached agencies.
The question remains when rice prices will stabilize and if these can reach the P20 per kilo target, a goal that remains elusive amid current market conditions.
