Mango production in Mangaldan, Pangasinan is expected to be lower this December 2023 after roughly 50 percent of the town’s total mango plantations suffered from fruit fly infestation. 

Mango growers in Barangay Nagsaing, for example, are preparing to harvest the fruits from the two-hectare mango orchard owned by Jose Malicdem. However, despite an initial estimate of harvesting around 300 crates of mangoes, Malicdem is doubtful if they can still salvage 200 crates due to the impact of the infestation.

Majority of the fruits have been damaged and have rotted after being attacked by fruit flies. 

"Nabibiyak kasi sya, tapos nahuhulog na wala na kaming magagawa,” Malicdem said.

Based on monitoring conducted by the Calasiao Agriculture Office, more than 50 hectares of mango orchards are affected by the fruit fly infestation, representing roughly 50 percent of the total mango plantations in the town. 

To salvage the remaining fruits, mango growers have sprayed their trees with insecticides extensively. Additionally, protective measures, such as hanging traps on mango trees, have been employed to deter fruit flies.

"’Yung fruit fly kasi ang nag wo-wound doon sa ripe fruits or vegetables, kasi doon sila nag li-lay ng egg. Kapag naka-enter na sila doon [sa vegetable or fruit], nakakapag-enter na rin ang ibang bacteria na pwedeng maging sanhi o cause noong fruit para mabilis siyang masira,” says Rosemarie Calaunan, an Agricultural Technician from the Calasiao Municipal Agriculture Office.

As of December 7, 2023, the Agriculture Office continues to assess the extent of damage of the infestation.