Collaboration is key in protecting Zamboanga Sibugay’s rubber industry against Pestalotiopsis Leaf Fall Disease (PLFD). To execute the Provincial Executive Order No. 2023-008, “An Order for the Temporary Ban on Movement of Rubber Planting Materials in the Province of Zamboanga Sibugay,” the Philippine Rubber Research Institute (PRRI) calls to action against Pestalotiopsis the different local government units in Zamboanga Sibugay including other partner agencies such as the Bureau of Plant Industry-IX, Regional Center for Crop Protection-IX, and the Regulatory Division of DA-RFO-IX.
During the meeting, attendees were informed about the current status of PLFD in the province and the nature of the disease. The meeting includes the call for action for the implementation of the E.O. and for the prevention, control, and mitigation of the disease. These include the creation of a Zamboanga Sibugay Task Force on PLFD, establishment of quarantine posts and biosafety measures, installment of tarpaulin and signages, monitoring and surveillance on the rubber plantations, and promotion of Good Agricultural Practices, fertilization, and treatment.
Dr. Cheryl Eusala, head of PRRI, emphasized the need to protect the rubber industry against PLFD. The disease not only affects the economic aspect of the province and municipality but also threatens the livelihood of rubber farmers. To combat the disease, the collaboration of PLGUs, MLGUs, DA-BPI, DA-RFO, and other government agencies is crucial.
With this collaborative effort, Zamboanga Sibugay aims to control the spread of Pestalotiopsis in order to protect the rubber industry in the province. This meeting is a step towards achieving these goals and securing the future of the province’s rubber industry.
DAIREEN O. GO
