PCA urges LGUs to work together to fight 'Cadang-cadang' virus

The government is taking precautions to safeguard the coconut industry in the region by urging cities and towns to work together in order to contain the spread of a virus called the "Cadang-cadang" that infects coconut trees.

Philippine Coconut Administration 7 regional manager Deodiro Ravelo said LGUs that directly transact business with Samar, Catanduanes, Masbate, and other places in the region should compose the "Cadang-cadang" containment team.

"Cadang-cadang" comes from the Bicolano word "Gadan-gadan" which means "death."

However, Ravelo said that although he has not heard of reports of infected coconut specimen in Central Visayas, the threat remains.

He said the Visayas has the biggest number of organized coconut group of farmers. Of the 150,000 to 500,000 coconut farmers in the region, 80,000 are organized.

"Cadang-Cadang" can be transmitted to palms through contaminated scythes, bolos, and knives.

Other plants known to have been attacked by the Cadang-Cadang viroid are anahaw, buri, and the African oil palm.

Most of those infected showed stunting characteristics and yellow spots on leaves. -Ferliza C. Contratista