Several durian farmers in Davao City have expressed concern over the possible effects of El Niño on their crops.

The Durian Industry Association of Davao City warned the dry spell could affect both the quality and production of the city’s signature fruit.

Association president, Emmanuel Belviz, said the current extreme weather conditions could lead to uneven fruit ripening and calcium deficiency among durian trees.

“Kung grabe kainit ang panahon, walay tubig sa yuta, less ang absorption sa tubig, less and absorption sa nutrients mao gani, usually, calcium-deficiency ang durian malas-ay di man siya makasuyop og potassium mao nay makapatam-is sa durian. Naa poy ginatawag nato nga UFR uneven fruit ripening ang pikas hinog and pikas hilaw,” Belviz said.

State weather bureau PAGASA issued an advisory on April 21, 2026, noting that Davao City has been experiencing a dry spell.

PAGASA said dry spell occurs when an area experienced below-normal rainfall for three months.

The state weather bureau also said that El Niño may hit in June.

Belviz added that while heat can sometimes help increase fruit yield, prolonged drought and water shortage pose serious risks.

He said each durian tree needs 100 to 200 liters of water daily to stay healthy.

Once water is limited, farmers may turn to mulching - covering the base of trees with plant debris - to retain soil moisture and reduce evaporation.

“Ang mulching magbutang ka og plant debris maka-cover ka sa yuta, waste sa bunot tabunan ang base sa punuan kung mabasa di dayon siya mo-evaporate,” Belviz added.

The association stressed that government support, particularly in irrigation, is important to help farmers sustain their livelihood amid the threat of El Niño.