Bong Go warns vs possible water crisis

SEN. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go Photo by Bibo Nueva España /Senate PRIB

By Javier Joe Ismael, Manila Times

April 15, 2023 

SEN. Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go is urging the government to strengthen its reforestation and greening programs as the reported possibility of a water crisis looms.

In a chance interview after aiding fire victims in Parañaque City on Wednesday, April 12, Go, a member of Senate Committees on Agriculture and on Environment, noted the importance of enhancing the country's greening efforts, involving local communities, local government units and the private sector to address growing concerns over the country's water supply.

"If there are more trees in our forests, more rainwater will be accumulated in the soil," the senator said.

Go acknowledged the move of the previous administration of then-president Rodrigo Duterte to make irrigation free for farmers.

He, however, said the incoming El Niño phenomenon may make it difficult to release sufficient volume of water from dams, affecting the farmers' ability to plant their crops.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration has issued a warning that the country may experience El Niño starting in the latter part of this year and persisting until 2024.

The weather phenomenon can cause a prolonged drought and significantly impact the country's agricultural crops, a vital source of livelihood for many Filipinos.

The senator expressed concern for the plight of farmers and called on government agencies to take action.

He called on the government to enhance and build more water-related infrastructure, such as irrigation canals and water pumping stations, to help support the agriculture industry.

"The effect of climate change has intensified. We cannot 100 percent rely on rain to irrigate our farmlands, especially during the summer dry season," Go said.

He also called on the Department of Agriculture (DA) to provide alternative sources of income or assistance to farmers who could be affected by the possible water crisis.

As part of its 2023 El Niño Mitigation and Adaptation Plan, the DA has announced that it will promote several measures to help farmers cope with the anticipated drought.

These measures include encouraging the use of organic fertilizers, promoting the use of drought-tolerant and early-maturing crops and adjusting planting calendars to optimize crop yields.

A consistent advocate for stronger agricultural support systems and infrastructure in the country, Go co-authored Republic Act 11901, which expanded the financing system for agriculture, fisheries and rural development.

He also supported programs to enhance irrigation, expand the National Rice Program and combat agricultural smuggling.

Additionally, the senator backed proposals to convert idle government lands into agricultural areas to boost food production.

He cited the vital role of farmers in ensuring food security and he aims to provide them with the necessary support to succeed.

Go co-sponsored Senate Bill 1850 or the proposed "New Agrarian Emancipation Act," which seeks to condone almost P58 billion worth of loans that agrarian reform beneficiaries incurred in owning lands under the government's Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program or from other agrarian reform programs.

The measure is now awaiting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s signature to become a law.