Department of Agriculture Region 10 Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Pacamalan warned that up to 92,000 hectares of agricultural land in the region could be affected by water scarcity once drought sets in.
Due to this threat, the agency fears potential damage to the rice yield intended to cover a 190- to 200-day food supply for Northern Mindanao.
Consequently, the official stated that importing rice from abroad may be considered to prevent market price spikes.
As a preparatory measure, the agency is encouraging the cultivation of alternative crops like sweet potato—costing only 10 to 15 pesos per kilogram—to ensure a viable livelihood during the crisis.
