Farmers are being encouraged to consider early-maturing and drought-tolerant rice varieties as part of their preparations for a possible El Niño expected to bring drier conditions in the coming months.
The Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) said these varieties can help farmers better manage water limitations and reduce risks to their crops during prolonged dry spells.
Citing forecasts from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, the agency said a possible El Niño may develop between June and August 2026, which could lead to water shortages in major rice-producing areas.
PhilRice’s climate-smart maps show that of the 1.58 million ha of rice areas in Luzon, around 301,000 ha are highly susceptible to drought while another 280,000 ha are moderately vulnerable. In Mindanao, about 150,000 ha are classified as highly susceptible while more than 205,000 ha in the Visayas face similar risks.
Christopher C. Cabusora, PhilRice senior plant breeder, said choosing suitable varieties is one of the practical ways farmers can prepare for water-limited conditions.
He said recommended varieties fall into two groups: drought-tolerant types that can withstand limited water supply and early-maturing types that can be harvested sooner to help farmers avoid the most severe dry periods.
“These varieties help farmers cope with heat stress and limited water supply. They require less irrigation, mature in about 106 to 113 days, and can still yield 3-6 t/ha under stress-prone conditions,” Cabusora said.
Compared with commonly grown varieties that mature in about 120 to 130 days, early-maturing rice shortens field exposure to drought particularly during critical growth stages.
Under the Rice Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (RCEF) Seed Program, PhilRice is distributing recommended varieties and will roll out newer releases. These include PSB Rc 10, NSIC Rc 480, Rc 594, Rc 596, Rc 572, Rc 732, and Rc 740.
Cabusora said drought-tolerant varieties can maintain acceptable yields even with below-normal rainfall.
He added that early-maturing varieties allow farmers to time their harvest ahead of the projected peak of El Niño, reducing the risk of severe water stress later in the cropping season.
In addition, farmers are advised to use water efficiently, avoid wastage, and adopt water-conserving practices.
They are also encouraged to monitor weather advisories, as extreme heat may increase crops’ susceptibility to pests and diseases.
“Planning is crucial. If water is limited, farmers may diversify by planting other crops alongside rice to better manage resources and secure harvests despite adverse conditions,” Cabusora said.
