1,196 Small Sugar Farmers Receive Financial Relief in Sagay

September 5, 2026

Over a thousand small-scale sugarcane planters in Sagay City received financial relief to mitigate the devastating agricultural impact of a massive pest infestation.

A total of 1,196 small sugar farmers in the city received 10,325 pesos each under the initial rollout of an emergency cash transfer program. The aid is designed to cushion the severe economic blow dealt by an outbreak of the red-striped soft scale insect (RSSI), which has ravaged sugarcane lands across the locality.

Second District Representative Alfredo “Thirdy” Marañon III expressed hope that the cash assistance will alleviate the hardships brought on by the crisis, noting the critical need to support displaced growers.

Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Negros Island Region Director Arwin Razo stated that the funding was secured following directives from President Ferdinand Marcos and close coordination with Congressman Marañon.

He also confirmed that farm laborers affected by the pest crisis are also included in the relief pipeline and will comprise the next batch of beneficiaries as the distribution expands.

Sagay City Mayor Leo Rafael called on the community to remain resilient as local authorities work to contain the agricultural threat. “Let us all strive to rise above this challenge. It is when we work together that we can survive from this crisis,” Rafael said.

To combat the infestation on the ground, ongoing spraying operations utilizing Rover R100 insecticide are currently underway in Sagay. The intervention forms part of continuing efforts by City Government and the Sugar Regulatory Administration to manage the RSSI outbreak, protect sugarcane farms, and safeguard livelihoods.

City Agriculturist Julie Delima announced that targeted pest-management support services have been outlined for growers dealing with crop damage.

Farmers managing RSSI-affected chemical application areas are advised to coordinate directly with her office to avail themselves of the services.* (I Love Sagay SMP)