Armyworms destroy crops in 3 Negros areas

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — Up to 125 hectares of sugarcane and corn crops in three areas in Negros Occidental have been destroyed by armyworms.

The office of the provincial agriculturist said the infestations affected 208 farmers.

A report received by Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said the worms destroyed 82 hectares of sugarcane in Himamaylan.

The worms devoured 45 hectares of corn in Binalbagan, Himamaylan and Isabela, according to provincial agriculturist Dina Genzola.

The Department of Agriculture said the worms usually consume turf grass, but could attack any vegetation along their path.

Neem oil-based sprays or biological agents such as earwigs, spiders and predatory wasps can be used to control these worms.

Rep. Emilio Bernardino Yulo of the province’s fifth district yesterday said the local government started spraying chemicals on affected fields in Himamaylan, with the help of the Sugar Regulatory Administration and private companies.

Yulo said the armyworm infestations may have been caused by changes in the weather.

During dry season, the worms stay close to the ground and later move up to feed on leaves and fruits.

Aside from armyworms, earworm infestations  were also reported in the villages of Cabadiangan, Carabalan and Mambagaton in Himamaylan City; Camang Camang and Cansalongon in Isabela, and Santol in Binalbagan.