El Niño threat triggers race to save power, water in provinces

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Philippines — Energy firm First Gen Corp. is preparing for reduced power generation and maintenance shutdowns at its 1.6-megawatt Agusan hydroelectric plant in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, as an impending El Niño threatens Mindanao’s renewable energy supply.

The 69-year-old run-of-river facility serves about 15,000 households but cannot store water. Plant head Herson Lacorte expects river flows to decline this month and reach their lowest levels in March and April 2027, reducing generation and revenue.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) expects El Niño to strengthen toward the end of 2026 and persist through the first half of 2027. Below-normal rainfall is forecast across Mindanao in November, with drought expected to spread across much of the island by March.

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READ: Habagat, El Niño may hit farm output despite ample supply

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Rising temperatures have also increased electricity demand, contributing to a yellow alert on the Mindanao Grid in August. Authorities have urged local governments, farmers and agencies to conserve water and electricity and adjust planting schedules.

Mobilization

In Camarines Sur, Gov. Luis Raymund “Lray” Villafuerte Jr. has ordered a 30-day mobilization program to prepare communities and farms for a potentially very strong El Niño.

The program will coordinate early warnings, identify vulnerable communities and alternative water sources, and prepare emergency supplies. The province aims to complete an initial water and agricultural risk assessment by Nov. 15, while improving rainwater storage and irrigation infrastructure.

In Baguio City, hotels, restaurants and tourist destinations are preparing water conservation plans. Baguio Water District general manager Salvador Royeca said recent heavy rains replenished reserves, including the Santo Tomas Rain Basin, which could supplement supplies for up to six months, depending on consumption and operating conditions.

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However, prolonged dry weather and increased tourist arrivals could strain supplies. Royeca urged tourism establishments to invest in rainwater harvesting and water recycling and encouraged visitors to conserve water.

Alternative sources

In Bohol, Catigbian, is strengthening water security by identifying alternative water sources, purchasing two mobile water purification units worth P3 million and installing solar power systems at water pumping stations.

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The municipality is also seeking support for solar-powered irrigation projects that could serve more than 30 hectares in one area and about 500 hectares in another.

Bohol Gov. Erico Aristotle “Aris” Aumentado said the provincial government would continue promoting climate-smart agriculture and fisheries, strengthening water security and supporting local producers. —Reports from Michael B. Jaucian, Cong B. Corrales, Vincent Cabreza, and Leo Udtohan