CITY OF SAN FERNANDO — The Provincial Government of Pampanga gathered municipal and barangay officials from the Fourth District on Oct. 6, for a disaster forum focused on climate risks, flood management, irrigation, public health, and community preparedness.
This, as the Capitol ramps up disaster preparedness as the province braces for El Niño, with officials warning of prolonged dry conditions through the first half of 2027.
Led by Gov. Lilia “Nanay” Pineda, the forum brought together representatives from the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, Department of Public Works and Highways, National Irrigation Administration, Department of Environment and Natural Resources–Environmental Management Bureau, Department of Education, Department of Health, and other concerned government agencies.
Discussions focused on climate change and El Niño, flood management, irrigation structures, solid waste management, disaster preparedness, and the prevention of diseases during and after calamities.
Gov. Pineda emphasized the importance of proper waste segregation and disposal, noting that garbage can clog waterways, worsen flooding, and contribute to the spread of diseases.
“Magtulungan po tayo pagdating sa segregation, dahil basura ang dahilan ng pagbaha, wala nang madaanan ang tubig at ito rin ang dahilan ng mga sakit,” she said, reminding the barangay officials and residents that keeping waterways and communities clean is a shared responsibility.
The provincial disaster risk reduction and management office reported that 408 of Pampanga’s 505 barangays experienced flooding during the recent southwest monsoon or habagat.
Meanwhile, Engr. Lorenzo A. Moron, weather services chief of the National Capital Region–PAGASA Regional Services Division, discussed the changing weather conditions following the official termination of the southwest monsoon.
“Kahapon [Oct. 5], officially na po tinerminate ng DOST-PAGASA ang southwest monsoon at saka iyong ating rainy season. At ngayon, nasa transition period papunta sa tag-lamig. Kung may pag-ulan man, isolated na lang iyan,” Moron said.
Government agencies are now closely monitoring El Niño and preparing for its possible effects, he said. “Kasi talagang magpe-persist ang El Niño hanggang June 2027 next year, at bago matapos ang taon ng 2026 ay aabot siya ng very strong category.”
DOST-PAGASA has warned that the ongoing Strong El Niño may intensify into a Very Strong El Niño toward the end of 2026 and persist through the first half of 2027. The phenomenon may bring below-normal rainfall, dry spells, and drought in some parts of the country.
As part of its preparations, the provincial government is looking into the creation of an El Niño Task Force that will focus on measures to lessen the possible effects of the weather phenomenon on communities, agriculture, water resources, and livelihoods.
Barangay officials who joined the forum also received cash assistance and half a cavan of rice as additional support for barangays at the forefront of disaster preparedness and response. Pampanga PIO/Photos: Daniel Ombina