First report of Spodoptera frugiperda in the Philippines
In the Philippines, Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae – EPPO A1 List) was first observed at the end of June 2019 at Piat, Cagayan province (Luzon). More specimens were then collected from other maize-growing areas in Cagayan and Ilocos Norte provinces (Luzon). The identity of the pest was confirmed by using morphological and molecular methods. As of October 2019, the pest has been found on maize in 66 municipalities and 17 cities in different regions of the country (in Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao island groups). The infested area is estimated to cover 224 ha. Official control measures are being implemented to limit the spread of the pest.
The pest status of Spodoptera frugiperda in the Philippines is officially declared a: Present: at low prevalence.
Sources
IPPC website. Official Pest Reports – Philippines (PHL-02/1 of 2019-10-28) Report of first detection of fall army worm (FAW) in the Republic of the Philippines. https://www.ippc.int/en/countries/philippines/pestreports/2019/10/report-of-first-detection-of-fall-army-worm-faw-in-the-republic-of-the-philippines/