Information material about the Fall Armyworm (from DA RFO XII)
A local agriculture official dismissed fears of local farmers about the Fall Armyworm infestation in Negros Occidental saying it is “not alarming”
Provincial Agriculturist Japhet Masculino stated that infestation could be controlled and contained through the proper and regular application of insecticides.
However, the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) released a memorandum stating that the destructive Fall Armyworm has a high reproductive rate and is difficult to control as they have a natural tolerance to some insecticides.
Last week, Fall Armyworms were spotted in five farming areas namely, La Carlota City, La Castellana, Pontevedra, Himamaylan City, and San Carlos City – infecting rice, corn, soybeans, sugarcane, and some vegetables.
Around three hectares of corn crops in Escalante City were affected, too.
Negros Occidental governor Eugenio Jose Lacson issued an executive order forming a coordinating task force to address the infestation.
Lacson said there is a “critical need” to ensure preparedness and strengthen pest surveillance and management activities. (RJ Espartinez)