• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Department of Agriculture-Negros Island Region (DA-NIR) has warned rice farmers of possible pest infestations and diseases that may affect their crops from October to December this year.
The advisory, based on historical data and an analysis by the Bureau of Plant Industry-Crop Pest Management Division, identified several pests and diseases that farmers should monitor during the fourth quarter.
Rice stem borers are among the pests that may affect rice fields in both Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental.
In Negros Oriental, farmers are also advised to watch out for bacterial leaf blight, leaf folder, and rice blast.
The DA-NIR urged farmers to conduct regular field monitoring to detect early signs of pest infestation or disease infection.
Recommended preventive measures include synchronized planting, proper application of nitrogen fertilizer, use of resistant rice varieties, proper field preparation and sanitation, and effective water management.
The agency also stressed the importance of early detection so that appropriate pest management measures can be implemented immediately.
Farmers who observe unusual increases in pests or damage to their rice crops are encouraged to contact the DA-NIR at (034) 468-5355 or nir@mail.da.gov.ph for technical assistance and recommendations. | GPB
