Philippines, Drought in Oriental Mindoro (Effects of El Niño)

On 09 June 2026, the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that El Niño conditions are present in the tropical Pacific. In May 2026, the observed relative sea surface temperature anomaly (rSSTA) reached the +0.5°C threshold. Additionally, most climate models suggest there is over an 80% probability that this will develop into a full-blown El Niño event, which is likely to persist until early 2027.

El Niño increases the likelihood of below-normal rainfall conditions, which may result in adverse impacts such as dry spells and droughts in some areas of the country. However, over the western part of the country, above-normal rainfall conditions during the Southwest monsoon season (i.e., Habagat) may also occur.

On 15 June 2026, the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, issued Sangguniang Bayan (SB) Resolution No. 06-198-2026 declaring a State of Calamity (SoC) due to water shortage brought about by the El Niño phenomenon. Based on the report, the LGU of Puerto Galera identified 13 barangays with farmers adversely affected by the dry spell, resulting in reduced harvest yields and loss of income should the condition worsen.

In response, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), through Field Office (FO) MIMAROPA, closely coordinated with the LGU of Puerto Galera, Oriental Mindoro, and immediately provided relief assistance to address their urgent needs.