Cecid fly infestation threatens the yield of the “sweetest fruit” in the world, even as government researchers are finalizing studies on how to address the problem caused by the bug.
Agriculture Secretary William Dar has ordered Undersecretary Evelyn Lavina of the high-value crops program to help in research and development initiatives that could help end the Cecid fly or “kurikong” infestation.
“Finalize the ideas immediately and start the projects in two weeks,” Dar was quoted as saying in a statement released by his department.
“Together, let us save the Philippine mango industry and maintain our distinction of producing the ‘sweetest fruit’ in the world.”
The Cecid fly is a mosquito-like insect that lays its eggs on the fruit’s surface and in young mango leaves, where its larvae bore into the fruit and feed on it.
Such infestation is threatening Philippine mango production, which was 737,928 metric tons in 2019 and worth P24 billion.
Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority show that the export of fresh and dried mangoes amounted to $17.88 million last year, which was 4 percent higher than in 2018.
“Together, let us harness the power of science and technology to cure ‘kurikong’ and other major concerns confronting our mango industry,” Dar said.
