The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is calling for crop diversification in the Philippines to address the looming challenges posed by El Niño. This recommendation comes amid predictions of dry spells that could severely impact agricultural productivity.
Importance of Crop Diversification
Farmers are creative and resilient. They can read the weather and they know what needs to be done.
Dulce Carandang, Assistant FAO Representative to the Philippines
Dulce Carandang, the FAO's Assistant Representative, highlighted that diversifying crops is essential for ensuring continuous agricultural production during periods of drought. The organization emphasizes that farmers must adapt their planting and harvesting schedules based on climate forecasts.
Carandang noted that the Department of Agriculture (DA) is actively supporting farmers in planning around anticipated dry spells. She remarked on the inherent adaptability of farmers, who often rely on their intuition and experience.
However, Carandang warned of the risks associated with mono-cropping, particularly in dry conditions. Without access to drought-resistant crops, farmers may face significant challenges.
The FAO reminds farmers that drought management involves more than just coping with a lack of rainfall. Ensuring the health of soil and groundwater resources is vital to sustaining agricultural output.