DA-Davao asks farmers to report El Niño crop damage early, leave fields uncleared

The Department of Agriculture in Davao Region (DA-Davao) is asking farmers whose crops have been hit by El Niño to report the damage to their municipal agriculture offices (MAOs) right away, and to leave damaged crops in the field until they are inspected, SunStar reported.

DA-Davao Regional Executive Director Macario Gonzaga made the appeal on Saturday, October 31, 2026, on the agency's Estorya sa Kaumahan program. He said clearing or replanting damaged areas before the required assessment slows down validation. He added that many farmers report only after their crops are already lost, and urged them to go to their MAOs as soon as they see signs of moisture stress.

According to Gonzaga, reports begin at the MAO, where an agriculture technician and local officials inspect the farm and log the damage in DA's disaster information system. The report then goes to the Provincial Agriculture Office, which coordinates with DA-Davao for validation. Farmers should provide photos, the location, the crop's growth stage, the affected area and the estimated loss. Damage must be validated before it can be used as a basis for assistance.

Insured farmers were told to coordinate immediately with the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) and their MAO to start claims. Gonzaga stressed that PCIC indemnity is separate from other government aid, and that cash assistance cannot be promised unless officially approved. Emergency financial help may be available to qualified farmers depending on guidelines, eligibility and funds.

Citing DA-Davao field reports, Gonzaga said El Niño damage since June 2026 has affected 6,205 farmers, with losses of about P584 million, and that local government reports are still being updated. SunStar earlier reported losses of P584.68 million across 6,634 hectares. DA-Davao is monitoring Davao del Sur, Davao City, Davao del Norte and Davao de Oro, with Matanao and Bansalan in Davao del Sur among the badly affected areas. Bananas and other fruits have also been damaged.

Gonzaga said the agency's El Niño action plan carries an estimated P729 million for preparation and mitigation. DA-Davao is procuring quality seeds, promoting drought-tolerant rice and corn varieties, distributing organic fertilizers and soil conditioners, and working with the National Irrigation Administration and local governments on irrigation. Cloud seeding is possible but depends on cloud conditions and must first be confirmed by concerned agencies.

"Andam daan, pagplano daan ug pangayo dayon ug tabang," Gonzaga said, meaning prepare early, plan early and ask for help right away. Pagasa has warned that El Niño is expected to become very strong and last through the first half of 2027.