THE Department of Agriculture (DA)-Western Visayas advised farmers in the region to brace for inclement weather this week.

Remelyn Recoter, regional executive director of the DA-Wesntern Visayas, said the department has released an advisory asking farmers to be vigilant.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said earlier that Visayas and Mindanao will be affected by Tropical Depression Agaton (Megi).

Recoter said they advised the farmers to better harvest their mature crops as soon as possible, secure seed reserves, plant materials in areas vulnerable to flooding, secure animal shelters and relocate when necessary.

The farmers have also been told to maximize harvesting of water for future use, immediately report to barangays in case of damage to agriculture and monitor weather advisories.

The fisherfolk were also advised to secure fish cages and boats.

In Ibajay, Aklan, the Municipal Agriculture and Fisheries Council reported that it has conducted “bayanihan” to help fellow farmers cut the tree branches that pose hazards to the residents. (Jun Aguirre/SunStar Philippines)