Upland farmers see less crop damage despite high heat index

CEBU, Philippines — Despite the high heat index recorded in recent months, upland farmers in Cebu City have experienced less damage this year compared to previous years, according to the Cebu City Agriculture Department (CAD).

In an interview with The Freeman, City Agriculturist and CAD head Arleigh Gesta said farmers began to feel the effects of the heat index as early as March. However, rainfall starting in May has eased their situation.

Gesta noted that so far this year, CAD has not received any reports of significant crop damage.

“Minimal rajud kaayo sya ang damage, dili nato ma compare sa mga niaging tuig nga medyo significant jud ang damage, visible gyud kaayo ba, but karon di jud kaayo nimo makita ang damage,” he said. In contrast, over 100 hectares were reported damaged in 2023.

He explained that the recent rains have helped in land preparation and allowed some farmers to begin planting and even harvesting their crops.

While improvements are evident, Gesta clarified that water pressure remains low in some areas, and certain barangays still lack a fully restored water supply. “Although some damage was sustained, it was only minimal,” he added.

Farmers have also adapted by reducing the scale of their planting in anticipation of extreme heat. “Mas naay rainfall karon (this year compared to last year),” said Gesta.

To support farmers, the Cebu City Government has continued distributing aid since the declaration of a state of preparedness, including water reservoirs like plastic drums and tanks with 2,000 and 4,000-liter capacities.

“Not necessarily para sa atong farms ug farmers but basically para naay magamit sa mga household, para sa ilang mga balay nga magamit sa tubig,” Gesta said.

Gesta reported that farmers are now less dependent on water deliveries because of the rainfall that began about two weeks ago.

Earlier this year, on April 1, former Cebu City mayor Michael Rama declared a water supply crisis due to the effects of the El Niño phenomenon. Later, 28 mountain barangays in the city were placed under a state of calamity to expedite relief efforts.

Gesta said that lessons learned from last year have led to better preparedness through advance procurement efforts to support upland farmers. FPL (CEBU NEWS)