Draft:National Crop Protection Center

Fall Armyworm Infestation

NCPC investigated the identification, biology, distribution, and biological control of the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) in the Philippines.^[12][13] In 2019, the pest was first detected in several provinces through larval morphological traits and its spread across major corn-growing areas was documented.^[14] Researchers described its complete life cycle on corn, noting high fecundity and the presence of natural enemies such as parasitoids and predators that help regulate populations.^[15] NCPC also evaluated commercial sex pheromone lures and homemade traps in Laguna, which were used for monitoring male fall armyworm populations.^[16]

Coconut Scale Insect or "Cocolisap" Outbreak

In the mid-2010s, NCPC entomologists studied outbreaks of the coconut scale insect (Aspidiotus rigidus) in Laguna and Quezon. Infestation severity was compared across different topographies and cropping systems. Neonicotinoid insecticides applied via trunk injection were most effective, while a naturally occurring black encyrtid parasitoid achieved up to 80% parasitization, suggesting potential for biological control.^[17] Studies also found that the parasitoid Comperiella calauanica played an important role in controlling outbreaks in Southern Tagalog and Zamboanga Peninsula, with high parasitization rates which coincided with population reductions observed within one to two years^[18]

Various Crop Diseases

NCPC plant pathologists have investigated various crop diseases in the Philippines. In 2024, they collaborated on the cassava witches’ broom disease, identifying potential pathogens and contributing to understanding its causes.^[19] Subsequent studies isolated Rhizoctonia theobromae as a causal agent, which may help guide management strategies.^[20] NCPC researchers also screened local tomato varieties for resistance against root-knot nematodes using molecular markers and biochemical assays, providing data that may help in breeding resistant cultivars.^[21] Studies on mango postharvest diseases demonstrated that calcium salts reduced fungal infections caused by Lasiodiplodia theobromae.^[22]

Biological Control

In the early 1980s, studies reported that Trichogramma parasitoids were effective in controlling various pests of corn, tomato, and sugarcane, and techniques for their mass production and field release were developed.^[6] The fungus Paecilomyces lilacinus was also investigated for its potential to control potato cyst nematodes.^[6]

NCPC researchers also evaluated entomopathogenic fungi such as Metarhizium rileyi, Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae against major lepidopteran pests.^[23] For the onion armyworm (Spodoptera exigua), M. rileyi induced 73–100% larval mortality under laboratory conditions.^[24] For fall armyworm, B. bassiana showed higher virulence than M. anisopliae.^[25]

Pesticide Residues and Toxicology

NCPC chemists have studied pesticide toxicology, including impacts on non-target organisms.^[26][27] Moreover, using the Rapid Bioassay for Pesticide Residues (RBPR), they detected organophosphate and carbamate residues in both conventional and organic-labeled produce in Southern Luzon.^[28] NCPC also developed a rapid colorimetric detection kit, which revealed pesticide contamination in organic-labeled vegetables from several regions, suggesting non-compliance with organic farming.^[29][30]

Surveillance of Emerging Pests

NCPC entomologists in the late 2010s documented nationwide surveillance and rapid response efforts against new and emerging crop pests, including fall armyworm and coconut scale insect.^[31][32][33] This monitoring program may contribute to early warning systems and strengthen pest outbreak response of the country.

Molecular Studies in Crop Protection

Researchers applied DNA barcoding and morphological analyses to differentiate species and subspecies of Locusta migratoria manilensis. They also identified Spodoptera pecten as a new armyworm record for Luzon.^[34]