The Department of Agriculture (DA) has issued early warnings to farmers and fisherfolk in Eastern Visayas and parts of Mindanao ahead of Tropical Depression Ada, which is expected to affect key agricultural and fishing areas.
The advisory comes after the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA-DOST) forecasted that the storm would impact Samar provinces and the Caraga region.
Farmers in the potentially affected provinces are urged to harvest rice, vegetables, and other crops that are ready for harvest to prevent losses from strong winds and heavy rains. The DA also advised relocating seeds, planting materials, farm inputs, and machinery to safe locations.
To mitigate flooding, the department is conducting clearing operations for irrigation canals and waterways. Farmers are further advised to prepare emergency supplies for livestock and to closely monitor weather updates.
Fisherfolk have also been warned to secure their boats and equipment in elevated areas and postpone sea travel, particularly in areas experiencing strong winds and high waves due to the approaching storm.
According to the latest PAGASA report, Tropical Depression Ada was last spotted 635 kilometers east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, with maximum sustained winds of 45 km/h and gusts of up to 55 km/h, moving northwest at 35 km/h. Five provinces, including Samar, Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Dinagat Islands, and Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur, are under Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 1.
The DA Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Operations Center will provide regular updates. Farmers and fisherfolk are encouraged to take precautionary measures immediately to minimize losses and ensure safety.
With another Low Pressure Area (LPA 01b) also forming east of Mindanao, authorities are closely monitoring the weather for any development into another tropical depression within 24 hours.
