Calamity state to stay in Negros Occidental amid infestation

Negros Occidental will continue to be under a state of calamity as Red Striped Soft-Scale Insects have infested nearly a third of the province’s sugarcane fields, impacting a major economic sector. Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson announced the ongoing infestation, stressing the severity of the problem. This situation is crucial as sugar production is a significant part of the local economy, and the infestation could lead to substantial financial losses and job uncertainties for those dependent on the industry. The government's response will likely focus on containment and damage control to mitigate the broader economic impact.