PAGASA raises El Niño Watch, sees possible onset by JulyLocals walk over the dry part of Intang Lake in Pantabangan, Nueva Ecija on April 22, 2024. MANILA, Philippines — PAGASA raised an El Niño Watch on on Wednesday, March 25, amid forecasts showing an increasing probability that the warming phenomenon could happen as early as July. The state weather bureau said the watch was issued after La Niña ended on March 9 and neutral conditions set in. Under its alert system, PAGASA raises an El Niño Watch when the forecast probability of the phenomenon developing within six months reaches 55% or more. El Niño raises the likelihood of below-normal rainfall across parts of the country, which can bring dry spells and droughts.

Source: Philippine Star March 25, 2026 16:59 UTC