The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) is establishing Coconut Scale Insect (CSI or Cocolisap) Quarantine Checkpoints in Brgy. San Miguel, La Carlota City, starting next week, Mayor Rex Jalandoon said on Tuesday, Dec. 3.
There are still cases of cocolisap in Barangay San Miguel so the control on the movement of coconuts is being strictly enforced to prevent its spread, Jalandoon said.
Cocolisap, scientifically known as Aspidiotus Rigidus Reyne, poses a significant threat to the coconut industry, the PCA said.
Infestations lead to symptoms such as yellowing and premature leaf loss, which can eventually cause stunting, non-bearing, and death of coconut trees, it said.
Cocolisap spreads easily through the air infecting coconut leaves and fruit, and can also affect other plants like avocado, mango, breadfruit, guava, and papaya, the PCA said.
The checkpoints are being set up in compliance with Executive Order 23-36, issued by Governor Eugenio Jose V. Lacson that aims to control and mitigate the spread of cocolisap and its detrimental effects.
The PCA, in partnership with Brgy. San Miguel and the La Carlota government, said it is calling for “full cooperation and support from all stakeholders in this crucial initiative”.
Last year there were reports of cocolisap damage in La Carlota City, Bago City, La Castellana and Murcia.
It was immediately controlled by pruning and release of CSI predators.*