Tobacco farmers urged to plant early as El Niño looms

THE National Tobacco Administration (NTA) said it plans to adjust the start of the tobacco farming season this year from November to October to avoid the impact of El Niño, BusinessWorld reported.

NTA Deputy Administrator for Operations Nestor C. Casela told reporters that the regulator is seeking to wrap up planting by mid-December, targeting an early March harvest. The early planting schedule is intended to help farmers avoid the dry spell associated with the El Niño weather phenomenon.

The advisory comes as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) monitors the potential onset of El Niño, which could bring reduced rainfall and affect agricultural output. The NTA is coordinating with local government units to ensure farmers have access to early planting materials and support.