News Details

SRA Enforces Transport Permit for Sugarcane to Prevent Spread of Pest Threatening Industry

NPO

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August 30, 2025

BACOLOD CITY – The Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) has tightened its biosecurity measures by requiring permits for the transport of sugarcane plants and planting materials, in a bid to contain the spread of the red-striped soft scale insect (RSSI).

In an update Friday, the office of SRA Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona said the agency is closely working with the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) quarantine services unit to enforce the directive.

“Applications are being received and some have been declined. A shipment bound for Mindanao has been intercepted. The SRA has mobilized quarantine personnel to help,” the statement said.

The new rules are outlined in Memorandum Circular 9, series of 2025, implementing Sugar Order 6, which prohibits the transport of sugarcane plants or planting materials from quarantine areas due to pest infestation or destructive diseases. Transport will only be permitted if preventive measures—such as washing and spraying with proper chemicals—are undertaken and verified.

“No sugarcane plants or planting materials shall be transported outside of barangays, municipalities or provinces under quarantine whether for commercial or research purposes, unless supported by a permit to transport duly issued by the SRA,” the directive emphasized.

Applicants may submit forms and requirements via the SRA’s online portal or email.

The SRA, in coordination with the Department of Agriculture, BPI, and other government agencies, underscored the importance of implementing stricter biosecurity protocols, especially with the ongoing need to develop climate- and environment-resilient sugarcane varieties.

“The RSSI attacks sugarcane leaves and reduces sugar content by about 50 percent. If not contained, it may wipe out the sugar industry not only in Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Panay but eventually in the rest of the country,” the agency warned.

As of the latest SRA-Visayas data, 3,656.69 hectares of sugarcane areas have been affected by RSSI infestation. In Negros Occidental alone, 3,509.83 hectares in 24 cities and municipalities have been hit, impacting 1,913 farmers across 162 barangays.

— NPO News Team | PN-PR