State of emergency mulled over sugarcane pest attack

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June 17, 2026 | 12:00am

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — The provincial government of Negros Occidental is considering the declaration of a state of emergency if the infestation of red-striped soft scale insect on sugarcane farms worsens.

The Sugar Regulatory Administration said the pest has devoured up to 2,249 hectares of sugarcane plantations in Negros and Panay islands.

As of June 5, the infestation had affected 1,108 farmers in Negros, Iloilo and Capiz.

Negros Occidental logged the widest area destroyed by the pest with 2,049 hectares.

Before making any declaration, Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said more data is needed to determine the extent of damaged areas.

Stakeholders will discuss with Lacson measures aimed at addressing the problem.

The declaration of a state of emergency will allow local government units to tap their calamity funds to help farmers affected by the pestilence.