DFNet

February 22, 2024 | INQUIRER.NET |

The Department of Agriculture (DA) in the Philippines is collaborating with Sun & Earth Microbiology LLC, a US biotechnology firm, to address the longstanding Cecid fly infestation in mango farms. Since 1987, these flies have damaged up to 80% of mango fruits, impacting local production. Sun & Earth specializes in biological control agents and plans to introduce tested microbial solutions against Cecid flies in Palawan, where 100,000 hectares of orchards are affected. The DA is open to testing Sun & Earth's products, citing their success in controlling fusarium wilt in bananas. The company's approach involves using microbes to combat pests like rice bugs and Cecid flies, which lay eggs on mango surfaces, causing fruit damage. Despite concerns about regulatory clearances, the DA pledges to assist Sun & Earth in bringing their products to the Philippines, aiming to mitigate the Cecid fly menace and revitalize mango farming.

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