MANILA — In response to the severe impact of the El Niño phenomenon, the Maguindanao del Sur government has declared a state of calamity across the entire province.

According to the latest municipal reports from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Agrarian Reform (MAFAR), as of April 11, 2024, the towns of Ampatuan, Buluan, Datu Anggal Midtimbang, Datu Hoffer Ampatuan, Datu Montawal, Datu Paglas, Datu Salibo, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Datu Unsay, General Salipada K. Pendatun, Guindulungan, Mangudadatu, Pagalungan, Paglat, Pandag, Radjah Buayan, Shariff Saydona Mustapha, South Upi, Sultan sa Barongis, and Talayan are grappling with the effects of the prolonged drought.

The agricultural sector has suffered significantly, with crop losses amounting to P345.9 million, impacting 5,601 farmers cultivating crops like corn, rice, and vegetables.

The Provincial Board ratified Resolution No. 309, series of 2024, declaring a state of calamity in the entire province.

This declaration aligns with the criteria outlined in NDRRMC MC No. 60, series of 2019, mandating the mobilization of resources, implementation of emergency measures, and swift response efforts to address the challenges faced by the community.

Vice Governor Nathaneil Midtimbang and Governor Bai Mariam Sangki-Mangudadatu have both signed and approved the declaration, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated actions to mitigate the impacts of the drought crisis in Maguindanao del Sur.