Post by Brasil Sugar International

Philippines steps up fight against sugarcane pest as infestation spreads across growing regions By Vivek Waghmode - July 13, 2026 The Philippines has intensified efforts to contain the rapid spread of the red-striped soft scale insect (RSSI) after authorities validated infestations across more than 18,000 hectares of sugarcane fields in the Visayas and Mindanao, while reports suggest the affected area may have already exceeded 70,000 hectares. The pest has spread across more than 30% of the 250,000 hectares of sugarcane cultivated on Negros Island, the country’s largest sugar-producing region, which accounts for over 60% of national sugar output. Provincial governments and industry groups are now coordinating large-scale measures to limit further damage. Cadiz City Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr., president of the Association of Chief Executives in Negros Occidental, said local government leaders would meet on July 17 to decide how to implement a coordinated response. He said the use of systemic chemicals would form part of the control strategy and stressed the need for all local government units to act together to protect standing sugarcane crops. Negros Occidental Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II said uniform protocols to tackle the infestation are awaiting final approval from Governor Eugenio Lacson, following the province’s declaration of a state of calamity last month. After the creation of the Provincial Biosecurity Task Force through Executive Order No. 26-12, its technical working group and research team prepared a comprehensive response plan. The proposed measures include genome sequencing of the pest, propagation of local parasitoids, predator insects and beneficial fungi, along with a detailed budget for the containment programme. Diaz said personnel, laboratories and other resources would be deployed next week once the operational plan receives approval. In neighbouring Negros Oriental, Governor Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria said the provincial government is expected to declare a state of calamity during the provincial council’s regular session this week. He said Tanjay City and Bais City have already declared a state of calamity, with other sugar-producing local government units expected to follow. The Negros Oriental government has proposed an initial allocation of P15 million to support containment efforts and provide assistance to affected farmers. The United Sugar Producers’ Federation (UNIFED) has also stepped up consultations with local government officials from both Negros provinces to discuss a synchronized, one-time aerial spraying operation. UNIFED President Manuel Lamata called for a unified response during a sugar industry forum held in Talisay City on July 10. He said only systemic chemicals that are safe for people, animals, crops and beneficial insects should be used in the campaign. Brasil Sugar International (BSI) Website: https://brasil-sugar.com Email: [email protected] WhatsApp: +1 248 939 2646