MANIL, Feb. 17 -- The government is on a tight watch over food prices, water, and power supply as it anticipates the El Nino to affect more provinces by the end of February.

At a news forum in Quezon City on Saturday, Task Force El Nino spokesperson and Presidential Communications Office Assistant Secretary Joey Villarama said 41 provinces are currently affected by the weather phenomenon.

He said 10 more may be added to the list before March.

In Western Visayas and Zamboanga Peninsula alone, the government has monitored PHP151 million in losses in rice and corn.

Of the 41 provinces, 17 are currently experiencing dry conditions, 10 under dry spell, and 14 are experiencing drought.

"In terms of what is being monitored at kung ano po iy...