By Kenneth Marcos 
Rain-soaked skies and rising winds are expected to sweep across Eastern Visayas and Catanduanes this weekend as Tropical Depression ADA approaches the Philippines. Authorities are urging farmers, fisherfolk, and residents in coastal areas to take necessary precautions.
The Department of Agriculture (DA) reported that the low-pressure area east of Mindanao has strengthened into Tropical Depression ADA. As of 2:00 PM on January 14, 2026, the storm’s center was located about 635 kilometers east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur, moving northwest at 35 kilometers per hour. Maximum sustained winds near the center reach 45 km/h, with gusts up to 55 km/h.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), ADA is expected to move toward Eastern Visayas, potentially making landfall on Friday, January 16, or early Saturday, January 17. The storm may then approach Catanduanes on Saturday or Sunday, January 18, before turning northeast over the Philippine Sea. Forecasters warn that ADA could intensify into a tropical storm within the next 24 hours, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds to affected areas.
Maritime conditions are also dangerous. The DA and PAGASA advise small-scale fishermen operating motorbancas or similar vessels to avoid venturing into the sea, as waves could reach up to four meters.
The storm poses a serious risk to agriculture. As of December 31, 2025, the DA reports that 1,280,534 hectares of standing crops may be affected. Rice accounts for 811,177 hectares, while corn covers 469,357 hectares. Among rice crops, 54.89% are in the seedling or vegetative stages, 19.94% in reproductive, and 25.17% in maturity stages. For corn, 61.85% are seedling or vegetative, 27.29% reproductive, and 10.87% mature. Farmers are encouraged to secure crops and harvest what is ready to minimize losses.
The DA Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Operations Center will continue to provide updates on ADA’s path and impact. Farmers and residents may call (02) 8929-0140 or visit www.da.gov.ph and the DA-DRRM Facebook page for the latest advisories.
As ADA moves closer, the message is clear: stay vigilant, protect your families, and secure livelihoods wherever possible. The storm is a reminder of the importance of preparedness, especially for those whose lives and work depend on the land and sea.
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