PCA approves Chemrez’s organic cocolisap solution

The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) has approved an organic solution developed by Chemrez Technologies Inc., a subsidiary of D&L Industries, against the coconut scale insect (CSI), also known as cocolisap.

- — Jasper Emmanuel Arcalas

Chemrez said the approval of its CropGuard product is a "significant step" forward in promoting sustainable agriculture and safeguarding the country's prized coconut industry.

The integration of the organic solution into the PCA's integrated pest management framework will empower farmers with "safer" and "more accessible" solutions against devastating pests, particularly cocolisap.

"We commend the PCA for its bold, science-driven stance in support of organic and environmentally responsible farming practices," Chemrez president Dean Lao Jr. said.

"This decision underscores a strong commitment to protecting our farmers, our coconut heritage and our future," Lao said.

Chemrez said the government employed trunk injection of insecticides, particularly neonicotinoids, prior to the adoption of organic spray oils like CropGuard.