• RICHARD T. CABALLERO JR.
The Department of Agriculture in Negros Island Region (DA-NIR) has reported the occurrence of “rice black bug” infestations in Barangay Maslog, Sibulan, Negros Oriental.
A team from DA-NIR conducted a thorough field inspection in the area on January 20, following initial reports of the presence of the pest in rice fields.
Engr. Albert Barrogo, DA-NIR Director, stated in an interview that the pest has been monitored in 4 out of 10 rice fields sampled.
“The population of the pest is only at 0.6 percent,” he said, emphasizing that its presence does not pose a significant risk to the province’s rice plantations.
Barrogo noted that the early detection of the rice black bug is an advantage for authorities to implement prompt control measures.
He also added that there is only a “very slim” chance that the infestation will enter rice fields in Negros Occidental, due to the wind direction.
“Usually, it occurs during the dry season. Sometimes, it is carried by the wind,” Barrogo explained.
To provide an immediate solution and maintain crop health across the region, DA-NIR is planning to conduct a light trapping activity before and after the full moon.
“We will schedule a light trapping activity three days before and after February 2, which is the full moon,” he emphasized.*
