BACOLOD City – Eleven local government units (LGUs) in Negros Occidental have been affected by the red-striped soft scale insect (RSSI) infestation covering approximately 87 hectares of sugarcane farms, according to a report from the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA).
Most of the affected farms experienced mild infestation levels at around 20 percent, while one area spanning 12 hectares reported a severe 70 percent infestation and is now undergoing treatment.
The LGUs that reported slight to severe degree of infestation include the cities of Silay, Talisay, Victorias, Cadiz, La Carlota, Bago, and the towns E.B. Magalona, Manapla, Toboso, La Castellana, and Murcia.
The SRA has appealed to farmers to temporarily halt the transport of planting materials between areas to prevent the further spread of the infestation and until the infestation is contained.
SRA Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona, in a letter dated May 23 addressed to Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson, warned that RSSSI infestation poses a significant threat to sugarcane crops.
“It can drastically reduce crop yield, potentially impacting the overall output of the sugar industry,” Azcona stated.
The SRA also requested the cooperation of Gov. Lacson and all 11 mayors in the affected LGUs and urged them to assist in containment efforts.
Experts recommended early monitoring, detection, and insecticide spraying as initial responses. In cases of severe infestation, the affected canes should be de-trashed and burned immediately.
Azcona added that the Department of Agriculture (DA) has already extended support through quarantine measures. However, he emphasized the need for LGU advocacy and enforcement of stricter biosecurity protocols.
“We urge you to help cordon off infested areas and stop the transport of planting materials until clear containment protocols are established,” said Azcona.
Additionally, the SRA recommended the following preventive measures:
* Avoid exchanging planting materials, especially transporting or purchasing them across locations. If necessary, apply insecticide soaking treatment before planting.
* Limit field visits to infested areas.
* Thoroughly disinfect all equipment and materials — including clothes, tools, and vehicles — after use.
“The sugar industry is the lifeblood of our province,” Azcona said. “Despite last year’s dry spell, we saw positive output this season. We cannot afford another threat, and everyone’s help and cooperation is essential to contain this infestation.”
An online report from the DA warned that the situation could reach alarming levels if not addressed immediately. The RSSSI can reduce the sugar content of cane by up to 50 percent, the DA added./PN
