Iloilo: The Iloilo provincial government is relying on biological control measures to address an infestation of the red-striped soft scale insect, or RSSI, that has spread to sugarcane plantations in 27 of the province's 43 local government units. Acting Iloilo provincial agriculturist Geron Magbanua said Tuesday that biological control uses insects and fungi to suppress the RSSI and is being supported by the Department of Agriculture and the Sugar Regulatory Administration.

According to Philippines News Agency, among the fungi being used are Metarhizium and Beauveria, which have been found effective against the pest. However, production remains a challenge because the fungi take 45 to 60 days to grow. Other natural enemies, including trichogramma, earwigs, and lady beetles, are also being monitored. Magbanua noted that chemical control will supplement biological measures in areas where damage reaches at least 60% or is already severe.

Of the 13,409 hectares planted with sugarcane in the province, 9,908 hectares have been damaged, affecting 9,432 farmers, based on municipal data, Magbanua said. About 50% to 60% of the 27 affected municipalities reported total damage in some areas. The sugarcane was already five to six months old when the infestation occurred, limiting intervention because the crops were nearing harvest, he added.

Passi City has the largest affected area at 2,286 hectares, followed by San Enrique and Anilao with 1,400 hectares each, and Due±as with 1,000 hectares. Passi City declared a state of calamity on August 25, while San Enrique, Anilao, and Due±as are expected to follow. Magbanua emphasized that the declaration would be specific to the sugarcane area and not the whole population. The provincial government is awaiting the declarations before pursuing further interventions.