The DA-BAFS Compliance Assessment Team visited the locations of ongoing efficacy trials with approved Experimental Use Permits (EUPs) on June 19, 2024, in New Corella and Kapalong, Davao del Norte. This activity was conducted to verify the continued compliance of the ongoing efficacy trials with the approved EUP.
The trial aims to assess the efficacy of the product against scale insects, mealybugs, and aphids of cavendish banana (Musa acuminata var. Gran Nain). During the activity, the presence of mealybugs and bunchy top disease carried by aphids (as captured in photos) was observed. Scale insects were also observed; however, the pests were too minute to be captured in photos.
The conduct of efficacy trials through an EUP is a prerequisite for the registration of Organic Bio-control Agents (OBCA) products.