By Stephanie Sevillano
MANILA – The Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) are set to intensify intervention to contain the infestation of red-striped soft-scale insects (RSSI) in some sugarcane farms in Negros Occidental.
This came after the SRA reported that the infestation had already spread outside the northern part of the province where it was initially detected.
In a Viber message on Friday, the SRA said it had met with the DA to discuss ways to cushion the infestation’s potential impact on sugarcane production and prevent it from further spreading.
These include assistance in the possible distribution of pesticides to farmers and the stringent implementation of quarantine and transport protocols.
“(The DA will) help provide pesticide assistance which will be distributed to farmers… to ensure canes are pest-free, pending official protocol once a conclusive study is done,” the SRA said.
Earlier, SRA Chief Science Research Specialist Raphael Henri Mundo reported that the agency is now coordinating with the National Crop Protection Center (NCPC) and Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority for the possible issuance of emergency use permit once a second trial is completed on potential insecticides against RSSI.
These include Buprofezin, Dinotefuran, Phenthoate, Pymetrozine, and Thiamethoxam, which have shown potential in curbing RSSI’s spread.
The DA will also provide two tankers in the Negros island and Iloilo for disinfection of planting materials and canes that are being transported.
“In the absence of a conclusive study, the DA is ready to assist through these measures to prevent the spread in sugarcanes, and make sure it will not affect other value crops,” the SRA said.
To date, the SRA said the RSSI infestation is logged in 11 towns and cities across Negros.
Besides seven infested areas in northern Negros Occidental, three more areas in the southern portion of the island were also recorded, and one in central Negros Occidental.
Around 87 hectares were reportedly affected, with one farm sustaining 70 percent infestation.
In 2023, the SRA logged the country’s initial reports of RSSI infestation in Pampanga.
The RSSI, which was first discovered in Egypt, may reduce sugar content by almost 50 percent. (PNA)
