Damage to crops and other agricultural losses in Negros Oriental reached over PHP541 million due to the El Niño-induced drought.

On Tuesday, a report from the Department of Agriculture-Provincial Agriculture Technology Coordinating Office in Negros Oriental showed that El Niño effects have caused a production loss of around PHP541.4 million since December last year.

The report said some 1,410 hectares of land affected by drought are totally damaged and have no chance of recovery, while roughly 3,607 hectares are partially damaged.

Production loss in value, including rice, corn, high-value crops, fisheries and livestock, was pegged at over 9,560 metric tons.

According to the report, El Niño has affected 21 towns and cities in the province.

The affected areas include Mabinay, Bayawan City, Sta. Catalina, Zamboanguita, Vallehermoso, Bais City, Dumaguete City, La Libertad, Tanjay City, Manjuyod, Bindoy, Dauin, Tayasan, Canlaon City, Guihulngan City, Sibulan, Pamplona, Jimalalud, Ayungon, Amlan and Bacong.

Bayawan City reported the highest losses and damage to crops at around PHP251 million, including sugarcane.

Meanwhile, Governor Manuel Sagarbarria announced Tuesday afternoon that the provincial government is preparing to procure rice worth PHP20 million to be distributed to families affected by the drought.

Negros Oriental has been placed under state of calamity due to El Niño, which is expected to extend to late May or early June. (PNA)