• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) is ramping up efforts to help sugar farmers combat the spread of red stripe soft scale insect (RSSI) infestation through the distribution of beneficial micro-organisms, foliar fertilizers, and high-powered sprayers across the Visayas.
SRA Board Member and Planters’ Representative David Andrew Sanson yesterday warned that RSSI infestation is beginning to spread again due to the prolonged hot weather conditions brought about by El Niño.
While the current infestation is not yet as severe as last year’s outbreak, Sanson stressed the need for early intervention to prevent further spread.
Based on reports as of May 11, he reported that about 1,080 hectares of sugarcane plantations in Negros, Capiz, and Iloilo were already affected by RSSI infestations.
While he considers the situation alarming, Sanson said the damage to sugarcane leaves remains mild so far, compared to previous years.
He warned that the extreme heat may continue until December, and could create favorable conditions for RSSI to thrive.
“We have to treat it as early as possible to stop its spread,” Sanson said, adding that continuous training on fungus reproduction and application remains part of the agency’s ongoing response efforts.
The fungus, described by SRA as a breakthrough technology developed locally by its researchers, is now being propagated using molasses.
Sanson said the farmers can also reproduce the fungus in their own backyards, after proper training.
To fast-track distribution and usage, SRA has been conducting training sessions with Mill District Coordinating Councils (MDCCs) and sugar centrals, including in Ormoc, Leyte, cities of Victorias and Sagay in Negros Occidental, as well as in other sugar-producing areas.
Sanson acknowledged that SRA cannot handle the propagation of fungus alone, due to the large number of farmers needing assistance.
The SRA is now seeking the support of sugar mills and MDCCs to expand the production and distribution of the fungus treatment.
The rising cost of fertilizers also pushed the agency to provide alternative solutions to farmers, including beneficial fungus developed by SRA researchers that can help control RSSI infestation in sugarcane fields.
A total of 229 power sprayers worth P64,000 each were distributed on Monday to 192 block farms throughout the Visayas. The sprayers come with protective gear for operators and are expected to improve the efficiency of fertilizer and insecticide application.
Sanson said the power sprayers are more effective because of their strong pressure, especially when used together with insecticides and the SRA’s own fungus formulation that attacks and “eats” the RSSI pests.*
