By CESAR JOLITO III

The United Sugar Producers Federation (Unifed) is set to meet with Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson and Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) officials today to discuss urgent measures against the rapidly spreading red-striped soft scale insect (RSSI) infestation affecting sugarcane plantations.

Unifed President Manuel Lamata described the situation as alarming, noting that the extent of the infestation has been increasing at a rapid pace and raising concerns among sugar producers, particularly small-scale farmers.

“The figures are alarming, doubling on a weekly basis. Our planters, especially the small farmers, are worried about what this massive infestation will do to our crops,” Lamata said.

RSSI was initially detected last year, but its impact has become more severe this cropping season.

Lamata said the pest first emerged when sugarcane crops were already standing, causing damage that was considered manageable at the time.

However, he stressed that the current outbreak appears significantly worse and now requires coordinated intervention from both government and private stakeholders.

Lamata said the sugar industry remains a vital economic driver for Negros Island and warned that the infestation may have already contributed to the decline in sugar production recorded last year.

“We fear that if this is not addressed, it will cause even bigger damage,” he said.

To strengthen the response, Lamata has also invited SRA Administrator Pablo Azcona and members of the interagency RSSI task force established last year to participate in the discussions.

He acknowledged the ongoing efforts of the SRA, including research initiatives and assistance programs aimed at controlling the pests through biological methods such as fungi and other natural approaches.

However, he noted that the agency faces limitations in manpower and resources needed to fully assess and address the infestation across the island.

Lamata emphasized that combating RSSI requires a collective effort from government agencies, local officials, industry groups, and farmers.

“This is a problem where we all need to come together and help out as this is becoming a major problem in our productivity and, more importantly, the sustainability of the industry,” he said./CCJ, WDJ