Negros Occidental: The Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) has initiated a task force to tackle the red-striped soft scale insect (RSSI) infestation affecting sugarcane farms in the northern region of Negros Occidental. The task force aims to implement quarantine measures in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture to control the spread of this pest.
According to Philippines News Agency, David Andrew Sanson, the head of the task force and an SRA Board Member, emphasized that six areas in northern Negros are under close surveillance due to the reported infestation. The presence of RSSI can significantly decrease sugar content by nearly 50 percent, increase production costs, and potentially jeopardize the stability of the sugar industry if not managed properly.
SRA Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona noted that the infestation might have originated from Luzon, where an RSSI presence was previously reported and continues to exist in some sugarcane farms. RSSI, a relatively new pest to the country's sugarcane sector, was first identified in Bacolor, Pampanga, in June 2022. Azcona stressed the importance of sugarcane farmers being cautious about their sources of cane points to prevent further spread.
Sanson also advised farmers to cease transporting planting materials from Luzon and other affected areas, as the disease transmission has been linked to infected cane points. The SRA has sought help from the National Crop Protection Center (NCPC) at the University of the Philippines Los Ba±os, which identified five insecticides-Buprofezin, Dinotefuran, Phenthoate, Pymetrozine, and Thiamethoxam-that may curb the infestation.
NCPC university researcher Randolph Candano mentioned that while initial trials show promise, a second trial in a different location is required to confirm the insecticides' effectiveness. This step is necessary before applying for an emergency-use permit from the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA), as these insecticides are not yet approved for use in sugarcane. Candano recommended informing the FPA about the ongoing trials, although typically, the companies producing these insecticides would conduct their trials and apply for permits themselves.
Azcona indicated that the SRA plans to propose another trial in Negros but will focus on quarantining canes from infected areas for now. He urged the sugarcane community to work together to contain the infestation, especially with some farmers beginning to plant for the next crop year. Despite challenges from a prolonged drought, Azcona remains hopeful that the industry can sustain its performance and potentially exceed targets for the upcoming year.
