Negros Occidental declares state of calamity

As sugarcane pest attack continues

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines – The provincial government of Negros Occidental has declared a state of calamity over an infestation of red-striped soft scale insect or RSSI that has ravaged sugarcane plantations.

The declaration was approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan during a regular session on Tuesday, following recommendations from Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson.

Of the more than 190,300 hectares of sugarcane plantations in the province, 61,242 hectares have been devoured by the pest, according to the provincial disaster office.

The figure represents 32.18 percent of the province’s total sugarcane areas, according to the Sugar Regulatory Administration.

Lacson said the continued spread of RSSI threatens the sustainability of the local sugar industry.

If left unchecked, the infestation may result in severe economic losses, disruption of agricultural activities and reduction of farmers’ income, he said.

Aside from Negros Occidental, the neighboring province of Negros Oriental will also declare a state of calamity due to a similar pest attack, according to Gov. Manuel Sagarbarria.

A task force will be created to contain the infestation, while the provincial goverment will allocate P15 million for the procurement of pesticides and other response measures, Sagarbarria said.