Tropical Depression (TD) Kristine poses a significant risk to the agricultural sector, potentially affecting 1.3 million hectares of crops across the Philippines, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said on Tuesday. The DA noted that 1.1 million hectares are planted to rice while 207,442 hectares are dedicated to corn.
According to the DA, most rice crops are at critical growth stages, with 491,115 hectares or 44.5 percent, in the maturity stage, 452,123 hectares or 41 percent in the reproductive stage, and 160,344 hectares or 14.5 percent still in the seedling and vegetative stages. Corn crops show a similar pattern, with 148,187 hectares or 71.4 percent matured and 40,193 hectares or 19.4 percent reproductive.
The projected impact of TD Kristine extends beyond agriculture as the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP) reported that six of its lines have been ruined by the storm. Electric cooperatives, including Quezon EC and several from Leyte, are facing disruptions. NGCP has mobilized crews to inspect and assess damage while simultaneously conducting restoration activities where possible.
Meralco, the largest electric distribution utility, is also on high alert, with crews ready to respond to service disruptions as parts of its service area are under Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 1. “Our crews are on standby 24/7… We urge the public to observe safety measures, especially during flooding,” said Joe Zaldarriaga, Meralco vice president for corporate communications.
As the situation develops, both the agricultural and energy sectors are bracing for potential challenges posed by TD Kristine.
