A fast-spreading pest outbreak is putting sugarcane farms across northern Negros Occidental at serious risk. The infestation, caused by red-striped soft scale insects (RSSI), has triggered the creation of a special task force led by Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) Board Member David Andrew Sanson.
RSSI may be tiny, but their impact is massive, cutting sugar content by as much as 50%, according to experts.
As of now, the insects have already been confirmed in six cities and four towns:
Affected Cities:
- Bacolod
- Bago
- La Carlota
- Silay
- Victorias
- Cadiz
Affected Towns:
- Murcia
- EB Magalona
- Toboso
- La Castellana
Sanson said the group is coordinating with the Department of Agriculture to push for quarantine measures that would prevent further spread, especially through planting materials transported from infected areas.
SRA Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona added that the suspected source of the infestation was imported cane points from Luzon, where RSSI had already been detected earlier this year. He urged farmers to avoid using planting materials from outside Negros, especially without treatment.
To fight back, the SRA has partnered with the National Crop Protection Center (NCPC) of UPLB. Based on initial research, five insecticides have shown potential in reducing the pest population: Buprofezin, Dinotefuran, Phenthoate, Pymetrozine, and Thiamethoxam. However, these are not yet approved for use on sugarcane, and further trials will be necessary before seeking emergency-use permits.
Azcona said the second round of testing may be conducted directly in Negros to fast-track results. He also warned that aside from slashing yield, RSSI infestation could drive up production costs, impact sugar quality, and threaten the stability of the local industry, an industry that remains the economic backbone of many parts of the province.
“This isn’t just about pests. It’s about protecting our farmers, our harvests, and our local economy,” Azcona added.
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