Wesleyan University-Philippines (WUP) has formally constituted a University El Niño Task Force and directed the immediate implementation of preparedness measures in anticipation of the projected intensification of El Niño toward the end of 2026 and its possible persistence into the first half of 2027.
The Memorandum Order No. 017, series of 2026, dated October 16 by Gladys P. Mangiduyos, Vice President for Administration and Planning, ordered the task force to assess campus vulnerabilities, identify critical risks, and establish measures to protect the university community and sustain academic operations during potential El Niño-related disruptions.
The memorandum cited projections from the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA), the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as the basis for the university’s preparedness efforts.
The task force is composed of representatives from key university offices, including the vice presidents for Administration and Planning, Academic Affairs, and Finance; the University Hospital Administrator; the Crisis Management Committee Chairperson; the Chief Security Officer; the Office of the Student Affairs Director; the Information and Communications Technology Office Director; the Public Information Office Director; the Business and Procurement Office Head; and the Supreme Student Council President.
Among its primary responsibilities is to conduct a comprehensive 30-day campus vulnerability audit covering water supply, electricity, extreme heat exposure, health and hospital services, food security, fire prevention, and the continuity of academic operations.
The task force is also directed to identify critical risks and implement immediate preventive measures, particularly in water conservation, alternative power sources, emergency supplies, and protection against extreme heat.
Within the same 30-day period, it must develop a University El Niño Preparedness and Continuity Plan detailing contingency protocols and required resources, responsible offices, and implementation timelines. It is also tasked with strengthening campus-wide education on preparedness, responsible resource management, and science-based decision-making.
The memorandum requires a comprehensive report with preliminary findings, actionable recommendations, budgetary requirements, and clearly assigned responsibilities. It further directs the task force to coordinate with concerned offices and address urgent vulnerabilities without waiting for the audit’s completion.
The directive reinforces the importance of proactive, evidence-based preparedness in educational institutions facing recurring climate-related hazards.
As part of its broader preparedness efforts, WUP is directing its offices to identify potential disruptions before they occur and establish coordinated measures to protect lives, manage limited resources, and maintain essential university services.
“El Niño is not simply hotter weather,” the memorandum stated. “It is a test of how intelligently and responsibly we manage our limited resources, protect lives, and sustain our university.”
Article by Emily G. Agumbay (PIO)
Photo Courtesy of Office of Vice President for Administration and Planning
