CCCI flags hospitality, logistics, agriculture as sectors vulnerable to ‘very strong’ El Niño

Local

By Carmel Pedroza

THE Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) has identified the hospitality, logistics and agriculture sectors as among the most vulnerable to the projected impacts of a very strong El Niño, warning that supply constraints, rising operating costs and higher food prices could further burden businesses and consumers.

During the Hisgutan Ta! Media Forum on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026, CCCI vice president for partnerships, engagements, and governance Darwin Moises called for timely, science-based data and stronger government interventions to help businesses prepare for the anticipated effects of the climate phenomenon.

Moises said agriculture could bear the brunt of the impact, with potential supply shortages driving up food prices and affecting hotels, resorts and restaurants that depend on stable food supply chains.

“Most likely, it will be hotel resorts and restaurants because they also are into food logistics,” he said, noting that higher temperatures could also increase cooling costs and affect customer experience.

The logistics sector could likewise face higher costs as agricultural supply becomes constrained while demand remains relatively unchanged. These additional expenses could eventually be passed on to consumers.

Moises stressed that the effects of very strong El Niño would extend beyond weather conditions, potentially worsening public health risks for workers in poorly ventilated workplaces and adding pressure on businesses already grappling with inflation, slower economic growth and elevated operating costs.

He said micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) would be particularly vulnerable because many lack sufficient financial margins to absorb additional economic shocks.

CCCI is calling on government agencies to provide more comprehensive baseline assessments and reliable projections on the potential effects of El Niño on water supply, electricity, agricultural production and food prices.

Moises cited the need for clearer data on vulnerable agricultural areas and crops that can withstand prolonged dry conditions, saying such information would help businesses and other stakeholders develop appropriate preparations.

“I would hope there would be more baselining assessment,” he said, emphasizing the importance of determining how the phenomenon could affect the prices of rice, chicken and pork, among other basic commodities.

He added that government assistance should be implemented promptly and designed to deliver meaningful, long-term relief to businesses, rather than relying solely on one-time financial aid.

While recognizing ongoing government initiatives, Moises said the speed and accessibility of their implementation would be critical, particularly for MSMEs that need immediate support to manage rising costs.

CCCI is also pursuing collaboration with government agencies and other stakeholders to address vulnerabilities in power and water supply.

The chamber previously held focus group discussions on electricity concerns and plans to pursue further discussions on water security.

Moises said addressing the interconnected risks would require a coordinated, science-based approach involving national agencies, local governments and the business community to help protect enterprises, workers and consumers from the anticipated effects of the El Niño.(MyTVCebu)