The recent infestation of red-striped soft scale insects (RSSI) has devastated 1,788.9 hectares of sugarcane farms in the Visayas, primarily in Negros Occidental. This situation puts 869 farmers at risk of significant production losses.
Areas Most Impacted by RSSI Infestation
The Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) noted that these pests can diminish sugar content in sugarcane by up to 50%. This alarming statistic has prompted the Confederation of Sugar Producers Association to request immediate action from both the SRA and the Department of Agriculture.
We need large-scale measures to combat the resurgence of RSSI if we are to protect our farmers and the industry.
Confederation of Sugar Producers Association
The current situation mirrors last year's crisis when approximately 3,700 hectares were affected, predominantly in the same region. To counter this recurring threat, the SRA has been mass-producing entomopathogenic fungi as a biological control method.
SRA Board Member Dave Sanson highlighted that ongoing training programs on the application of these fungi are essential in their efforts to mitigate the impact of RSSI infestations.