CAPIZ — Sugarcane farmers in Capiz have proposed the establishment of a provincial registry system to improve the identification of affected growers and facilitate the distribution of government assistance during disasters and pest outbreaks.
The proposed “Capiz Provincial Registry System for Sugar Farmers and Planters Ordinance” would create an official provincial list of sugarcane farmers and planters that could serve as the basis for implementing government programs and providing assistance to the sector.
Rufino Ashbel Gad Dunton, acting provincial agriculturist of Capiz, said in a local radio interview that the registry would be particularly useful in determining beneficiaries during calamities and pest infestations.
As of August 12, 2026, the Provincial Agriculturist’s Office reported that 2,483 sugarcane farmers in the province had been affected by the Red Striped Soft-Scale Insect (RSSI), with a total of 4,234 hectares of sugarcane plantations affected.
Pilar recorded the highest number of affected farmers at 779, covering 1,047.93 hectares, followed by Pontevedra with 359 farmers and 894.35 hectares, and Maayon with 373 farmers and 665.08 hectares.
Dunton said stakeholders have been given an opportunity to submit suggestions and recommendations on the proposed ordinance.
Officials hope the registry will help expedite and organize the delivery of assistance to farmers affected by the RSSI infestation and other future agricultural emergencies.
Capiz was placed under a state of calamity on August 10 following the extensive damage caused by the pest infestation to sugarcane plantations across the province.
The declaration was approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan during a special session following the recommendation of Gov. Fredenil H. Castro and Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Resolution No. 6, Series of 2026./PN
