Farmers in Kabayan were caught off guard after frost damaged newly planted crops on Mount Pulag over the weekend, even as temperatures rise in other parts of the country.
Leaves of plants affected turned white and shiny as ice formed over them, a condition referred to locally as “andap.”
Farmers said they did not expect frost to occur in April, when heat is usually at its peak.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the phenomenon is rare but still possible due to a sudden drop in temperature in high-altitude areas.
Frost is more commonly recorded during the cold months of January and February, especially in mountainous regions.
