The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) on Wednesday said that its 60-day emergency containment measure against the aggressive “cocolisap” or coconut scale insect (CSI) infestation in the province of Basilan is now in full force and the rehabilitation program will follow immediately. “Expressing his serious concern with this [cocolisap]problem, Cabinet Secretary Leoncio Evasco ordered the immediate containment of cocolisap infestation in Basilan,” Atty. Valdez noted that the 60-day emergency containment measure, which started on September 20 is now being undertaken to reverse the damaging effects of cocolisap in the province. Its efficacy in treating the infected trees had been tested when it was used to treat some 1.3 million trees infected with cocolisap in the Calabarzon area. Valdez assured the farmers, that after the emergency containment of cocolisap, the rehabilitation program for the affected province, cities and municipalities would follow immediately.

Source: Manila Times September 28, 2016 17:03 UTC