Mark Villar calls for stronger food security measures for El Niño

MANILA, Philippines —Sen. Mark Villar called for stronger and more coordinated measures to safeguard the country’s food security amid the looming threat of Super El Niño, warning that prolonged dry conditions could disrupt food production and distribution, drive up prices, and put vulnerable Filipino households at risk.

In a statement, Villar cited a report from the Office of Civil Defense putting agricultural damage caused by El Niño at ₱6.8 billion as of October 2026, with 109 areas declaring a state of calamity.

The Department of Agriculture also warned that rice production could decline by approximately 700,000 metric tons, equivalent to 3.5 percent of its annual target.

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READ: Super El Niño demands urgent, science-based governance

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“Food security is not only about producing enough food. It is also about ensuring that food reaches every Filipino household at reasonable prices, especially during times of crisis,” Villar said.

The senator called for improved food storage facilities, more efficient inventory management, and reliable transportation and distribution networks to prevent supply disruptions and reduce post-harvest losses.

He also emphasized the importance of ensuring that local food producers have the resources and support needed to sustain production despite climate-related challenges.

Villar stressed that the government must adopt a proactive approach to food security by closely monitoring climate forecasts, food production, supply levels, and market prices.

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He urged national agencies and local government units to strengthen coordination and share timely data to identify areas at risk of shortages and implement targeted interventions before the situation worsens.

He also cited his proposed Integrated Urban Agriculture Bill (Senate Bill No. 422), which seeks to encourage food production in urban communities through rooftop gardening, vertical farming, and other innovative approaches.

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Villar said initiatives such as this could complement existing food supply systems and provide communities with additional sources of fresh produce.

READ: PH factory slump deepens on weak sales, El Niño

With the effects of El Niño potentially extending into 2027, Villar called for a comprehensive food security strategy that combines sustained local production, efficient distribution, price monitoring, and timely assistance to vulnerable communities.

“Food security must remain a national priority. We need to anticipate possible shortages, strengthen our supply chains, and ensure that no Filipino family is left without access to sufficient and affordable food,” he said.

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Villar reaffirmed his commitment to supporting legislative and policy measures that will protect the country’s food supply, strengthen its resilience to climate-related disruptions, and ensure that Filipino families have reliable access to food. /atm