Chemrez Technologies lauds PCA for Greelighting Organic Solution to Cocolisap Infestation

(Image Courtesy: Chemrez Technologies)

Chemrez Technologies, Inc., a subsidiary of D&L Industries, and a leading innovator in green chemistry and agricultural solutions, commends the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) for its decisive move to approve CropGuard, a locally developed organic pesticide by Chemrez, as a frontline solution against the devastating Coconut Scale Insect (Cocolisap).

The PCA’s approval represents a significant step forward in promoting sustainable agriculture and safeguarding the country’s coconut industry, long considered a pillar of rural economies, agri-exports, and national food security. By integrating organic options like CropGuard into its official Integrated Pest Management (IPM) framework, the PCA empowers farmers with safer, more accessible solutions that protect both livelihoods and ecosystems.

“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.”

A Safer Alternative to Trunk Injection

Prior to the adoption of organic spray oils such as CropGuard, trunk injection of systemic insecticides, particularly neonicotinoids, had been employed in response to severe outbreaks. While effective in the short term, trunk injection entails significant risks, including long-term tree damage, disruption of beneficial insects, and potential chemical residues in coconut products.

Crucially, the use of trunk-injected synthetic pesticides may invalidate the organic certification of coconut farms. This not only disqualifies farmers from accessing the premium organic market but also jeopardizes livelihoods and disrupts entire rural economies that depend on organic coconut production for income, sustenance, and export revenue.

CropGuard presents a non-invasive, residue-free alternative that facilitates farmers’ compliance with organic standards while safeguarding both their crops and communities.

In tests conducted in collaboration with the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) and UP Los Baños, it is recommended to spray CropGuard twice, 15 days apart. This approach renders the insect vulnerable to environmental factors and dehydration, blocks its breathing organs leading to suffocation, and forms a barrier that kills its eggs. CropGuard also acts as an insect repellent, discouraging feeding and egg deposition of insects.

Securing a Vital Industry

Over 3.5 million Filipinos rely on coconut farming as their primary source of livelihood. The Philippine Coconut Authority’s endorsement of CropGuard as a primary treatment option for early-stage infestations can effectively prevent the spread of Cocolisap prior to the necessity of severe interventions. This initiative also strengthens the Philippines’ position in the growing global market for organic and sustainably cultivated coconut products.

Chemrez Technologies, Inc. is a pioneering innovator in green chemistry and agricultural solutions, dedicated to delivering sustainable, scientifically based technologies in crop science, oleochemicals, resins, and specialty materials. A subsidiary of D&L Industries, Chemrez seamlessly integrates innovation with impact to meet the evolving needs of communities and industries alike. CropGuard is part of the company’s crop science portfolio.

D&L Industries is a Filipino company engaged in product customization and specialization for the food, chemicals, plastics and consumer products ODM industries. The company’s principal business activities include manufacturing of customized food ingredients, specialty raw materials for plastics, and oleochemicals for personal and home care use. Established in 1963, D&L has the largest market share in most of the industries it serves, as well as long-standing customer relationships with the Philippines’ leading consumer and manufacturing companies. It was listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange in December 2012.