Antique under state of calamity due to El Niño

By Rjay Zuriaga Castor

Amid escalating agricultural damage and shortage of water, the provincial government of Antique declared a state of calamity on Thursday, April 18.

The declaration was placed after the provincial board (Sangguniang Panlalawigan) signed the resolution of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) for such declaration.

The approval of PDRRMC’s recommendation authorizes the provincial government to utilize its quick response fund of P30 million to expedite aid delivery to affected areas.

Of the total budget, P10 million will be used in acquiring movable water tanks, providing food assistance, supporting affected farmers and fisherfolk, and covering fuel expenses for firetrucks used in water transportation to barangays.

As of April 18, four of the 18 towns in the province have declared a state of calamity due to the persisting drought conditions.

The four towns include Sibalom on March 13, Anini-y on March 27, Laua-an on April 12, and Tobias Fornier on April 17.

The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office said El Niño has impacted 12,552 families, totaling 50,292 individuals, across 281 barangays in the province.

Based on the latest report of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, Antique reported a production loss of P130 million from 299 hectares of totally damaged croplands and 2,534 hectares that are partially damaged.

Governor Rhodora J. Cadiao has previously urged collaborative efforts among partner agencies to ensure the effective delivery of aid to affected communities.