Zamboanga preparing for possible scale insect invasion

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines - The Zamboanga City agriculture office and the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) are closely monitoring the possible coconut scale insect infestation commonly known as ‘cocolisap’ following reports that the parasites have invaded fruit trees in this city. 

There were already reported cases but assistant city agriculturist Teodulo Adora said there has been no infestation level yet reported in this city. 

The agriculture official said at least six agriculture field offices have been mobilized to closely monitor cases as two agencies- the Department of Agriculture and PCA– assured readiness with the preventive and control measures in case the threat will hit the city.

Adora also urged farmers to closely coordinate and immediately report to their office once they notice such infestation of scale insects.

Farmers reported that the parasites which destroyed thousands of coconut trees in the nearby provinces of Basilan have reportedly invaded fruit bearing trees, specially lanzones. 

The PCA office in Isabela City, Basilan reported more than 70,000 trees from the 12,000 hectares of coconut areas were damaged by the scale insects.

Residents here claimed that the cocolisap invasion to lanzones trees were in the barangays of Baluno and Patulon, west coast of this city. The city agriculture office has yet to verify the reports. 

The PCA described the coconut scale insects as small insects which are known as Aspidiotus destructor (Signoret). Coconut trees invaded by the parasites show yellowing, wilting, premature nutfall and low yield because the scale insects suck off the plant sap.