The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has expressed its concern over the approaching El Niño next year, to which, according to the agency, could last until the second quarter of the month.

In an exclusive interview in Damdaming Bayan on Wednesday, DOST Sec. Renato Solidum Jr. said that El Nño could be stronger next year.

"Dahil may malakas na El Nino, magkakaroon ng pagbabago sa dami ng ulan kung saan maaapektuhan ang maraming probinsya. Magsisimula na ang epekto sa ating bansa," Solidum said.

"Ang Habagat ay 'di masyadong pansin dahil may ulan na dala ito pero dahil Amihan na, wala nang masyadong ulan na dumarating," he added.

According to the secretary, the second quarter should be monitored as if it could continue up to the following month.

"Siyempre kailangang bantayan kung hanggang 2nd quarter lang ba o magpapatuloy pa. Sa ngayon, 'yan muna ang tinitingnan 6 months ahead," he said.

Solidum earlier announced in a press briefing in Malacañang on Tuesday that 65 provinces might experience drought brought by the El Niño phenomenon in May next year.

He also said six provinces, or 7 percent, could be potentially hit by the dry spell.