Chemrez Technologies Inc., a subsidiary of D&L Industries and a pioneer in green chemistry, has received approval from the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) for CropGuard, its locally developed organic pesticide. CropGuard will serve as a primary defense against the Coconut Scale Insect, also known as “cocolisap.”
The PCA’s decision marks a significant step toward sustainable agriculture and the protection of the coconut industry, which is a vital pillar of rural livelihoods, agricultural exports and food security.
With CropGuard now integrated into the PCA’s Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy, farmers will have access to a safer, locally produced solution that supports both environmental and economic resilience.
“We commend the PCA for its bold, science-based commitment to organic and environmentally responsible farming,” said Dean Lao Jr., Chemrez president.
“This milestone reinforces our shared goal of protecting farmers, preserving our coconut legacy, and promoting a more sustainable future.”
Previously, the main method for tackling cocolisap was the trunk injection of synthetic insecticides, such as neonicotinoids.
While effective in the short term, this method poses risks, including potential damage to trees, harm to beneficial insects, chemical residues and jeopardizing organic certification — which many farmers rely on for market access.
CropGuard offers a non-invasive, residue-free alternative that allows farms to remain compliant with organic standards while protecting crops and communities.
Field tests conducted with the PCA and the University of the Philippines Los Baños showed optimal results when CropGuard was sprayed twice, 15 days apart.
The product works by suffocating pests, drying out their bodies, disrupting egg development and repelling further infestation.
Lao emphasized that early-stage pest control is crucial, given that more than 3.5 million Filipinos depend on coconut farming.
