Changing weather conditions threaten rice farmers in Pinukpuk; Gov. Edduba assures immediate assessment and appropriate intervention

Tabuk City, Kalinga – Governor James S. Edduba assured that measures are being pursued to address concerns raised by rice farmers in Pinukpuk over worsening river overflow that threatens their rice fields.

The assurance was given during the Emergency Management Committee meeting on April 27 at the New Conference Hall in Bulanao, where farmers’ concerns were brought to immediate attention.

Amid the threat of a possible El Niño phenomenon, which could bring prolonged dry spells and affect water supply for agriculture, the province is closely monitoring weather conditions as the rainy season approaches.

These changing weather patterns worry farmers, as both extended dry periods and heavy rains can damage crops, disrupt irrigation systems, and reduce harvest yields.

In this connection, the governor shared during the meeting that a group of farmers from Pinukpuk—particularly from Barangays Mapaco, Cawagayan, and Camalog—personally raised concerns about their rice fields. Edduba emphasized the need for immediate assessment and intervention, including the possible diversion of floodwaters to protect agricultural areas.

“Adda ti immay nga babaket from Barangays Mapaco, Cawagayan, Camalog—ket entire kanun nga kankanen diay karayan diay talatalon da. I will ask the engineering office ta ipanayon tayo nga ipa-validate. Ken nu kaya ket diay equipment tayo tu ti mapan mangi-remedyo tapnu mai-divert kuma piman diay danum kasi awan kanun mabati idiay talon da. Karkaru ta umayen ti panagtutudo ket karkaru nga malayos ti talon da piman,” he said.

Edduba added that the provincial government will continue to coordinate with concerned offices to determine appropriate interventions to mitigate the impact of river overflow.

The governor also assured farmers that necessary actions will be undertaken to protect farmlands and safeguard the livelihoods of affected communities.