By ALEX GALANG | June 18, 2026

SUBIC, Zambales — The local government of Subic has assured residents of its preparedness to mitigate the anticipated impacts of El Niño and prolonged dry conditions in the coming months.

Mayor Jonathan “Jon” Khonghun said the LGU has long been implementing measures in face of a “super El Niño” that global weather agencies like the UN’s World Meteorological Organization (WMO) warned could be one of the strongest in decades.

The DOST-PAGASA has also warned that even as above-normal rainfall can be experienced in some western sections of the country during the Southwest Monsoon, the broader El Niño pattern “poses threats of prolonged dry spells, water shortages, and agricultural disruptions in localized areas later in the year.”

Khonghun said in a statement that the Subic LGU has anticipated both the problems of a dry spell and heavy rainfall.

“The municipality continues to undertake desilting and dredging operations in the rivers of Manggahan, Ilwas, and Sacatihan, as well as the clearing of creeks and drainage canals in various barangays to ensure the efficient flow of water and reduce problems associated with extreme weather conditions,” Khonghun said.

“To address possible water shortages, the LGU has placed 20 water tanker trucks on standby for the management and distribution of water supplies in affected communities,” he added.

Last month, the Subic LGU also received a new water tanker from Congressman Jay Khonghun to augment the water trucks used in delivering water supply to Subic barangays.

Mayor Khonghun also pointed out that at the same time, health, relief, food assistance, and rice assistance programs remain in place for families that may be adversely affected by the effects of El Niño.

He said the LGU has also strengthened its support for the agricultural sector through the distribution of seeds and the provision of technical assistance to farmers to help lessen the impact of drought on food production.

Meanwhile, the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) conducts daily monitoring, information campaigns, and disaster preparedness activities as part of its mandate to enhance the town’s readiness for natural hazards and emergencies.

“Measures addressing the effects of El Niño and other climate-related challenges have long been integrated into the programs of this administration in pursuit of the welfare and protection of Subic residents,” Khonghun stressed.

He said the municipality’s capacity to respond to health emergencies is likewise expected to improve with the scheduled opening of the Subic General Hospital later this year. – with Taktikom Research