Chemrez Technologies, Inc., a subsidiary of D&L Industries and a leader in green chemistry and agricultural solutions, today announced its commendation of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) for its pivotal decision to approve CropGuard. This locally developed organic pesticide by Chemrez is now officially recognized as a frontline solution against the devastating Coconut Scale Insect (Cocolisap).
The PCA’s endorsement marks a significant milestone for sustainable agriculture in the Philippines, reinforcing efforts to protect the nation’s vital coconut industry. By integrating organic options like CropGuard into its official Integrated Pest Management (IPM) framework, the PCA empowers the more than 3.5 million Filipino farmers who rely on coconut farming with safer, more accessible solutions that safeguard both their livelihoods and the environment.
“We commend the PCA for its bold, science-driven stance in support of organic and environmentally responsible farming practices,” said Dean A. Lao, Jr., President of Chemrez Technologies, Inc. “This decision underscores a strong commitment to protecting our farmers, our coconut heritage, and our future.”
CropGuard offers a crucial, non-invasive, and residue-free alternative to previous methods, particularly trunk injection of systemic insecticides like neonicotinoids. While effective in the short term, trunk injection carries significant risks, including long-term tree damage, disruption of beneficial insects, and potential chemical residues in coconut products. Crucially, the use of such synthetic pesticides can invalidate the organic certification of coconut farms, jeopardizing farmers’ access to premium markets and disrupting rural economies dependent on organic coconut production.
Developed through collaborative tests with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) and UP Los Baños, CropGuard is recommended for application twice, 15 days apart. This method effectively renders the insect vulnerable to environmental factors, leads to suffocation by blocking breathing organs, and creates a barrier that kills its eggs. Additionally, CropGuard acts as an insect repellent, deterring feeding and egg deposition.
This initiative not only helps prevent the widespread devastation of Cocolisap in its early stages but also strengthens the Philippines’ position in the growing global market for organic and sustainably cultivated coconut products, ensuring the long-term viability of a cornerstone industry.
