DA readies cloud seeding in El Niño-hit areas

Cloud seeding operations are being readied in areas affected by the El Niño phenomenon, according to a ranking official of the Department of Agriculture (DA).

- BELLA CARIASO

In an interview with The STAR, Agriculture Assistant Secretary and spokesman Arnel de Mesa said the Bureau of Soil and Water Management and concerned DA regional directors are coordinating with the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), Office of Civil Defense and Philippine Air Force on the cloud seeding activities.

"Cloud seeding is our last resort. So far, cloud seeding operations (have been) done in Quirino, Isabela, specifically in the Magat Watershed. They are still on standby for seedable clouds," De Mesa said.

He noted that a standby fund was also allocated in Region 6 or Western Visayas for possible cloud seeding operations.