DA approves PHP10M for pesticide aid against RSSI in Negros

Department of Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. announced on Thursday that PHP10 million has been approved for pesticide assistance to combat red-striped soft scale insect infestations in Negros Island.

The Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) is procuring necessary pesticides, and the DA is providing additional support as needed with ongoing spraying operations.

Tiu Laurel emphasized strict monitoring of quarantine measures for sugarcane transport materials and ordered the Bureau of Plant Industry to trace planting materials suspected of carrying the pest from Luzon.

SRA Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona warned that without quick action, the infestation could lead to a 50 percent drop in sugar production, affecting about 250,000 hectares of planted sugarcane.

As of June 2, the pest has affected 546.10 hectares of sugarcane farms, with field validation efforts underway in northern Negros, the area most impacted by the infestation.

Tiu Laurel and Azcona inspected sugarcane fields in Bacolod City on Thursday as part of intensified efforts to combat RSSI, while SRA researchers have identified a parasite that can naturally control the population but chemical pesticides are being used currently.