By Nycel Jane Dela
The Province of Capiz has been placed under a state of calamity due to widespread infestation of sugarcane lands to Red-Striped Soft Scale Insect (RSSI).
In Resolution No. 535-Series of 2026, the Capiz Provincial Board adopted the resolution of the Capiz Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) last August 10, 2026.
Affected severely by RSSI are the municipalities of Cuartero, Dao, Dumalag, Dumarao, Jamindan, Maayon, Panitan, Pilar, Pontevedra, President Roxas, and Sigma.
Data from the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist found that RSSI infestation affected 76.67% of the province’s planting areas. Specifically, RSSI infestation affected 3,331.61 hectares out of the 4,345.10 hectares of planted area.
Around 2,000 farmers have already been affected by RSSI infestation.
RSSI, scientifically known as Pulvinaria tenuivalvata, is a sap-sucking pest that feeds on sugarcane leaves.
Research has identified it as an emerging pest of sugarcane in the Philippines. Its feeding can weaken plants, while honeydew produced by the insect can promote the growth of black sooty mold, further affecting plant health.
RSSI can also infest other crops, including rice and corn, raising concern over the spread beyond sugarcane plantations.
The state of calamity declaration is intended to allow the government to undertake immediate remedial measures in funding response, rehabilitation and recovery, as well as measures necessary to protect affected communities. (Photo by Municipal Agriculturist Office of President Roxas)
