QuestionsQuestions (LETTER OF INSTRUCTIONS NO. 405)
It responds to the need for a coordinated medium- and long-term solution to the perennial rat infestation problem (especially in Central Luzon and other areas) that threatens Masagana 99 rice gains, and to the broader damage caused by other pests and diseases.
The Department of Local Government and Community Development (DLGCD) must fully involve all barangays by forming Barangay Rat and Pest Patrols (RAPPS), coordinated by Crop Protection Coordinators of the Bureau of Plant Industry.
It means RAPPS serve as the main field-level implementers for rat control and other pest control activities under the national program, acting through barangay organization and coordination with BPI.
The DLGCD may devise ways and means to quicken barangay group action, such as holding contests and using local resources as incentives.
They must actively support, participate in, and encourage the work of all Barangay RAPPS within their respective jurisdictions.
The Secretary of Agriculture is directed to confer with manufacturers and distributors to prevent price increases and, if warranted by cost considerations, reduce prices.
The Department of Agriculture (with military assistance if necessary) must ensure that owners take appropriate measures to eradicate breeding places using rat extermination methods and conforming to timetables prescribed by the Bureau of Plant Industry.
The government will itself, or through authorized entities, undertake the measures for the account of the landowners.
The Department of Agriculture, through the Bureau of Plant Industry, must develop the plan for the President’s approval.
It is a nationwide center integrating scientific and technical information and research facilities with an effective field network of crop protection centers strategically located throughout the country.
The Secretary of Agriculture must consult the leading agricultural colleges and universities.
Yes. It must be presented “at the soonest possible time” for the President’s approval.
It takes effect immediately, as stated in the last paragraph.
National level: agencies under the President (DLGCD, Department of Agriculture/BPI, and the military if needed). Local level: barangays through RAPPS as principal field implementers; municipalities and provinces must support and encourage RAPPS in their jurisdictions.
RAPPS are coordinated by Crop Protection Coordinators of the Bureau of Plant Industry, while DLGCD organizes barangay involvement, and the Department of Agriculture designs national plans and sets methods/timetables through BPI.
It states rat infestation causes about four percent damage to rice crops, estimated at about P293 million in annual losses, which threatens both current and planned gains under Phase VII of Masagana 99.