By CESAR JOLITO III

The Department of Agriculture in the Negros Island Region (DA-NIR) has increased its allocation for cloud seeding operations to P6 million as the prolonged dry spell continues to affect agricultural areas on Negros Island.

DA-NIR Regional Executive Director, Engineer Jose Albert Barrogo said the move is part of intensified government efforts to mitigate the impact of hot and dry conditions that have already stressed major farming areas, particularly sugarcane plantations.

Barrogo noted that the Bureau of Soils and Water Management is closely monitoring evolving weather patterns to determine whether recent light and scattered rains in parts of Negros Occidental signal a sustained shift or remain isolated occurrences.

Field assessments conducted across the region indicate that sugarcane farms have suffered the most from the extended dry conditions, raising concerns over potential yield reductions if rainfall remains insufficient in the coming weeks.

While preparations for cloud seeding operations are underway, DA officials emphasized that it remains too early to place a definitive estimate on the total value of crop damage.

The agency said assessments are ongoing as part of standard damage validation procedures.

The increased funding is part of broader mitigation measures implemented by DA-NIR to help stabilize agricultural production and support farmers facing climate-related production risks during the dry season./CJ, WDJ