by Ahikam Pasion
Around 20 hectares of onion farms in the town of Bayambang, Pangasinan were affected by an infestation of the pest armyworm, locally known as “harabas,” forcing farmers to harvest their crops earlier than planned.
Twenty hectares would equate to a yield of 400 to 600 metric tons of onion, given well-managed agricultural practices were implemented.
Dr. Rafael Saygo, officer-in-charge of the Municipal Agriculture Office, said a total of 59 farmers were affected by the outbreak.
Local agriculture officials immediately conducted field assessments and coordinated assistance for affected growers. The Municipal Agriculture Office sought technical support from University of the Philippines Los Baños, which provided pest-control treatments for distribution to farmers.
Agriculture personnel are also offering guidance and training on pest management practices to help prevent similar incidents in future planting seasons.
Authorities said monitoring operations continue as officials assess the extent of crop damage and the needs of affected farmers. ()