Manila, Oct. 12 -- The Albay Veterinary Office (AVO) is assessing the risks posed by the ongoing drought to the province's livestock population and preparing measures to protect animals from the projected effects of a Super El Nino, which could persist until the first half of 2027.

Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Pancho Mella said the office is focusing on four major concerns: water, feeds, shelter, and prevention of possible animal disease outbreaks, as prolonged dry conditions could affect livestock health and the resources they depend on.

"The first thing we need to do is information dissemination among farmers," Mella said in an interview, citing the need to educate livestock raisers on measures to minimize the effects of the drought. ...