Mango farmers in Mangaldan, Pangasinan are struggling with cecid fly infestations that have damaged around 10 percent of mango farms in the town, causing premature fruit drop and affecting crop quality.

According to the Mangaldan Municipal Agriculture Office, the infestation is linked to changing weather conditions, which have worsened pest attacks on mango trees.

“Itong epekto ng malamig na panahon ay kailangan na properly monitored and proper management para hindi lubusang maapektuhan ng cecid fly o kurikong na umaatake ngayon sa manggahan,” Merle Cuison-Sali, Municipal Agriculturist, said.

Teofilo Imuan, a farmer, said his mangoes drop prematurely because of the pests.

“Kasi malamig... nahuhulog mga bunga. Doon sa taniman na isa, talagang maliliit pa lang, nahuhulog na,” he said.

Aside from the cecid fly, farmers have also reported poor fruit quality, with some mangoes rotting before ripening.

The Agriculture Office continues to monitor the situation and advises farmers on proper pest control measures.

Despite this, the Mango Growers Association and the Agriculture Office remain optimistic that the mango supply in Mangaldan will not be affected severely.