The Philippine government plans to implement measures which will mitigate the impact of a drought currently affecting rice producing areas in the country.

The measures to counter the impact of the drought include establishing small water impounding systems and widespread distribution of seeds in affected areas.

Currently a major buyer of rice in Asia, the Philippines has set a target of becoming self sufficient by 2010.  So far this year, Philippine rice imports have reached 1.6 million MT, mostly from Vietnam.