DENR ramps up El Niño mitigation measures nationwide

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has strengthened its mitigation measures against the ongoing El Niño, which is expected to bring prolonged dry conditions, reduced water availability and extreme heat in parts of the country. The DENR's heightened preparations include constructing small water impounding structures and rainwater harvesting systems, promoting water conservation, protecting watersheds and forests, preventing forest fires and safeguarding vulnerable ecosystems. DENR chief Juan Miguel Cuna said every unit must proactively execute climate adaptation and risk reduction protocols. Regional offices are conducting information campaigns in Central Luzon, while the Mines and Geosciences Bureau in Caraga advised mining companies to manage water demand and establish cooling stations. The Environmental Management Bureau in Davao Region limited outdoor work from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Meanwhile, the Department of Trade and Industry assured the public of sufficient bottled water supply and urged consumers not to hoard.