The red-striped soft scale insect (RSSI) infestation on sugarlands has increased by 4,869 percent since May, the Sugar Regulatory Administration reported on Friday, Sept.5.
The total area affected was 4,324. 77 hectares on Sept. 2, from 87.4 hectares on May 22 when it was first discovered.
The farmers affected are 2,377, the SRA report also said.
The report also said the Sept. 2 figure increased by 18 percent from 3,656.69 hectares infested as of August 19.
Negros Occidental has been the worst hit with 4,113.60 hectares followed by Iloilo with 83. 69 hectares, Leyte – 73.18 hectares, Capiz – 29.50- hectares and Negros Oriental – 24.80 hectares.
The RSSI attacks sugarcane leaves and reduces sugar content by about 50 percent, the SRA said
The SRA requires permits in the transport of sugarcane plants or planting materials as part of precautionary measures to curb the spread of RSSI.*
