MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) has created a climate-smart platform, aimed at guiding the planting decisions of rice farmers during El Niño.
PhilRice said the maps would identify areas that may be affected by El Niño and provide guidance on possible farming adjustments.
The Vulnerability Risk Assessment maps will allow growers to assess potential drought risks before they decide whether to proceed with planting, adjust planting calendar, shift to other crops or consider other livelihood options.
PhilRice Data Analytics Center head Jesusa Beltran said the platform considers three aspects: drought exposure, crop sensitivity and adaptive capacity.
It also takes into consideration climatic water-balance conditions, crop water stress and growth stage, as well as farmers’ resources and practices, irrigation access and available agricultural support.
“Using color-coded levels, farmers and local government units (LGUs) can determine which measures may be appropriate for their areas,” she said.
Areas assessed as less vulnerable were marked green, with farmers encouraged to proceed with planting while using water-efficient practices such as alternate wetting and drying and closely monitoring weather advisories.
According to PhilRice agronomist Ailon Oliver Capistrano, farmers may also adopt hybrid rice varieties and other yield-enhancing technologies to help cushion potential production losses as some rice-growing areas shift to other crops due to El Niño.
Farmers within moderately vulnerable areas, marked in yellow, are still advised to continue planting.
However, they are further called to consult with LGUs on adjusted planting calendars, securing crop insurance, using drought-tolerant and early-maturing varieties and ensuring alternative water sources.
In areas classified as high risk and marked in orange, farmers are encouraged to temporarily shift to less water-intensive crops such as corn, mung bean, watermelon and pechay.
For red-marked areas facing severe drought and water shortages, farmers may be advised to defer rice planting and explore alternative livelihoods, including livestock production and other income-generating activities.
“Through these maps, farmers can better understand their vulnerability level and the actions they can take,” Beltran said.
“For LGUs, the maps serve as a guide for agricultural planning and the delivery of timely support,” she added.
PhilRice also recommended other water-saving options, including direct seeding, solar-powered irrigation, rainwater harvesting and integrated farming systems.