KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — The Provincial Government of South Cotabato under the leadership of Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo, Jr., is intensifying efforts to address the challenges faced by farmers during the dry season.
The governor said, the province has proactively established water impounding facilities as part of its long-term preparation, especially following previous El Niño events.
“Dito sa South Cotabato, kung saan yung mga volumes na mga produksyon natin, meron naman tayong nailagay na mga water impounding facilities na talagang nai-prepare natin ahead—noong una pa man na mga El Niño na nangyari,” he said.
He cited the municipality of Tupi, a key source of fruits and vegetables in the province, has its water impounding facilities to support farmers.
“Katulad sa bayan ng Tupi, ito naman yung source ng fruits and vegetable natin. May mga impounding facilities na tayo diyan kung saansssssssss sila kukuha ng tubig if incase na kailangan ng mga tanim nila. Dito naman sa upper valley, meron naman tayong mga irrigation. Hangga’t meron tayong irrigation at dumadaloy sa ilog eh sa ngayon okay pa, wala pa namang problema,” he added.
However, the governor acknowledged that non-irrigated areas remain vulnerable and require additional support.
“So kaya lang doon sa mga hindi irrigated, kailangan talaga may supply sila galing doon sa mga impounding natin. Tinitignan natin kung gaano kalaki at saan ang apektado na area at magmi-meet up pa tayo with OPAg,” he explained.
Tamayo emphasized that supporting farmers during the dry season is critical not only to protect their livelihoods but also to ensure stable food supply and prices in the province. Reduced water availability can directly affect crop yield, particularly for high-value crops, which may lead to income loss among farmers and potential shortages in local markets.
He added that timely interventions such as water access, irrigation support, and continuous monitoring are essential to minimize agricultural losses and maintain productivity despite climate challenges.
The provincial government continues to closely monitor the situation and implement measures aimed at safeguarding crop production, sustaining farmers’ income, and ensuring food security across South Cotabato.
