Cloud seeding operations in Bohol province have concluded after reaching the 50-hour flight limit, local officials announced on Monday.
The Cloud Seeding Technical Working Group (CSTWG) of Bohol reported that the artificial rain-making efforts, which aimed to alleviate drought conditions affecting local farmers, have been completed ahead of schedule.
Operations were temporarily suspended in recent weeks due to a weather advisory from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warning of an approaching storm system expected to bring natural rainfall to the Visayas region.
"We decided to pause cloud seeding activities based on PAGASA’s forecast of inclement weather," said Cecile Opada, a science research specialist involved in the project.
However, the anticipated heavy rains did not materialize in Bohol, with the weather system instead bringing flooding to Metro Manila and other parts of Luzon.
The suspension of cloud seeding, despite having 11 flight hours remaining, has reportedly led to the drying up of previously irrigated rice fields in northern Bohol. Farmers have observed wilting crops due to the return of intense heat.
In response, agricultural workers have appealed for the continuation of cloud seeding until consistent natural rainfall occurs.
The cloud seeding initiative, which began in the second week of June, was funded by a P9 million peso allocation from the Capitol as part of its disaster mitigation efforts.
Local farmers, particularly in Getafe municipality, have expressed concern over delays in the planting season. Originally scheduled to begin in early May, cultivation was postponed due to insufficient rainfall.
Officials report that processes are in place for potential continuation of cloud seeding operations. However, it remains unclear whether the current service provider, whose air space clearance from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines expires on August 5, will be contracted for any extension.
If new arrangements are not made promptly, farmers may face further delays in rice cultivation, potentially impacting the season’s harvest.
The provincial government is now evaluating options to support affected farmers and ensure food security in the province.