
AI-generated summary
The continued development of the El Niño phenomenon has led to drought in the Philippines, affecting agriculture, fisheries and livestock production. The Philippine Department of Environment and Natural Resources is taking forest protection and restoration measures to combat water shortages.
China News Service, Manila, October 18 (Reporter Zhou Jing) The Philippine Department of Environment and Natural Resources stated on the 18th that in order to cope with droughts that may be intensified by El Niño and ensure water security, the department is strengthening forest patrols, restoration of degraded ecosystems, and afforestation in key river basins in the Philippines.
Juan Cuna, Secretary of the Philippine Department of Environment and Natural Resources, said that forests are an important natural barrier for conserving water sources. Protecting and restoring watershed ecosystems can help enhance water resource security and improve the resilience of communities to cope with drought and persistent drought.
Kuna pointed out that forest protection and restoration cannot immediately alleviate the current drought, but it can help improve ecosystem functions and ensure long-term water supply. Relevant measures include restoring degraded and fire-affected areas, strengthening the protection of existing forests, and improving the survival rate of newly planted saplings through replanting and irrigation.
The Philippine Department of Environment and Natural Resources stated that it will continue to monitor afforestation projects, assist community forest management organizations in sapling maintenance, and build fire isolation zones to reduce sapling losses and prevent forest fires.
The National Disaster Reduction Council of the Philippines recently stated that the ongoing El Niño phenomenon has caused agricultural losses of more than 6.5 billion pesos (approximately RMB 780 million) in the country, involving 10 regions and affecting more than 215,000 farmers and fishermen.
The Philippine Department of Agriculture previously stated that the El Niño phenomenon is expected to last until the first half of 2027, and the drought may further affect agriculture, fishery and livestock production, increasing pressure on food supply. (over)
AI outlook — possibilities, not facts
El Niño will last until the first half of 2027
Very likely · Within months
Drought may further affect agriculture, fisheries and livestock production
Likely · Within months

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