Agro-Allied Research Division-LAREC

18/08/2026

🔬 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐪𝐮𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐬𝐨𝐢𝐥 𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬

The 𝐒𝐑𝐀 𝐁𝐮𝐤𝐢𝐝𝐧𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐨𝐢𝐥𝐬 𝐋𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 underwent an onsite assessment by the DA-Bureau of Soils and Water Management (DA-BSWM) on August 12–14, 2026, as part of the requirements for soil laboratories under PD 1435.

The assessment covered the laboratory’s manpower, facilities, equipment, procedures, documentation, and compliance with DA BSWM requirements.

The laboratory will now work on the identified nonconformities and recommendations and carry out the necessary corrective actions to further improve its operations and soil testing services.

We thank the DA-BSWM Technical Evaluation and Assessment Team (TE&AT) for their guidance and recommendations.

One assessment at a time, one improvement at a time—toward reliable soil testing services for farmers and stakeholders in Mindanao. 🌱

17/08/2026

"𝐀𝐧 𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐚 𝐩𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐞." 🌱

The Agro-Allied Research Division - Crop Protection Section continues to support proactive pest management through information sharing and technical assistance in mill district offices in Luzon 🐞

Last August 5, technical personnel from SRA-LAREC served as a resource speaker during the Red-Striped Soft Scale Insect (RSSI) Forum held in PENSUMIL District, Camarines Sur, sharing practical information on early detection and management of RSSI in the region. 🐛🌾

The team also visited RCPC Region 5 for knowledge exchange on entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) production and its potential use as biological control agent. 🧫🌿

In addition, insecticides were provided for the management of other insect pests to support timely pest management interventions. 🪲

Through these efforts, AARD continues to equip stakeholders with knowledge and appropriate management options for more proactive pest management approach against RSSI in Luzon 🤝🌱

01/07/2026

𝐂𝐫𝐨𝐩 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 🌱🐞

The Agro-Allied Research Division, Crop Protection section conducted field validation and assessment of reportedly suspected areas infested by Red-Striped Soft Scale Insect (RSSI) in Brgy. Lucban, Calan, and Sucol, Balayan, Batangas last June 25-26, 2026.

Based on the field observations, low to moderate infestations of RSSI was observed in several fields located at barangays Sucol, Calan, and Lucban, Balayan, Batangas.

Numerous nymphs were found on the lower leaves, with some leaves starting to turn yellow and showing early signs of sooty mold development. Symptoms of leaf scorch disease (Taal, Batangas) were also observed in sampled field, which may affect the growth and vigor of the crop.

As part of the ongoing management efforts, a systemic insecticide is currently being applied in selected areas (Brgy. Sucol and Calan). Farm personnel are closely monitoring the treated fields to evaluate the effectiveness of the control measure before implementing additional interventions.

In areas (Brgy. Calan) where no insecticide application is being conducted, the use of the entomopathogenic fungus 𝘉𝘦𝘢𝘶𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘢 𝘣𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘢 is being encouraged as a biological control option. Farm personnel in Brgy. Lucban also shared that they have consulted their RCPC regarding the possible use of 𝘔𝘦𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘩𝘪𝘻𝘪𝘶𝘮 𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘪𝘢𝘦 as part of their pest management strategy.

The Crop Protection Section will continue monitoring the affected areas. Farmers are encouraged to regularly inspect their fields and report unusual pest infestations to the nearest SRA office or RCPC.

13/06/2026

As part of AARD's pest management strategy, Beauveria bassiana (white muscardine fungus) is being applied in sugarcane fields of SRA-LAREC with initial reports of RSSI infestation to help suppress pest populations before they spread.

In line with Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles, biological control is prioritized as a safe and sustainable approach, reducing reliance on chemical insecticides and minimizing the risk of insecticide resistance.

At present, fields with early infestations or low pest pressure are being identified, assessed, and scheduled for application as needed.

Beauveria bassiana is an entomopathogenic fungus that infects a wide range of insect species through direct contact: its conidia adhere to the insect cuticle, pe*****te the exoskeleton, proliferate inside the insect hemocoel, disrupt internal tissues through toxins, consequently affecting the insect's immune system, leading to insect death.

If you observe or receive reports of suspected RSSI infestation in your area, please do not hesitate to consult our team. Early detection and timely intervention are key to effective management.

25/02/2025

HARVEST TIME| February 17-21, 2025

Data collection of the Millable Stalk Attributes and Juice Extraction for analysis and determination of Yield Parameters of the Fertilizer Application Method Project in Bukidnon. Ratoon crops will be maintained and observed for further evaluation.

04/02/2025

IN PHOTOS | Field Monitoring and Data Collection Activities

Ms. Agnes Casupanan, Supervising Science Research Specialist, and Mr. Hermogene Tangara, Agricultural Technologist from AARD conducted a field visit to the farm of Mr. Pablito Sandoval to monitor the Phil 2012-483 sugarcane variety for pest and disease infestation. Their assessment revealed the presence of Pokkah Boeng and Red Rot, affecting the midrib and leaf sheaths.

Following the farm inspection, the researchers proceeded to the Ecotest experimental site in Cavite to collect germination data and document pest and disease occurrences. The following day, missing hills were replanted after irrigation to ensure uniform crop establishment.

27/01/2025

Read our latest publication on Issuu:

Annual Report - AARD 2024