Role of Barangay Rat and Pest Patrols (RAPPS)
- The Department of Local Government and Community Development (DLGCD) is mandated to engage all barangays in pest control via Barangay Rat and Pest Patrols (RAPPS).
- RAPPS will serve as the primary implementers of the national rat and pest control program.
- Coordination of RAPPS will be handled by Crop Protection Coordinators of the Bureau of Plant Industry.
- DLGCD may employ incentives such as contests to stimulate community action.
- Local municipal and provincial governments must support and encourage Barangay RAPPS activities.
Price Regulation of Pesticides and Rodenticides
- The Secretary of Agriculture is directed to confer with pesticide and rodenticide manufacturers and distributors.
- Objective is to prevent price increases and reduce prices where cost factors permit.
Enforcement and Landowner Responsibility
- The Department of Agriculture, supported by the military if needed, will ensure landowners eliminate rat breeding grounds on their properties.
- Breeding elimination must be done using proper extermination methods and follow timetables set by the Bureau of Plant Industry.
- Failure by landowners will result in government-led eradication measures charged to the landowners.
Development of Comprehensive Crop Protection Plans
- The Bureau of Plant Industry under the Department of Agriculture shall develop a comprehensive, integrated medium- and long-term protection plan against rats, pests, and diseases.
- This plan requires presidential approval and aims to safeguard agricultural productivity.
Establishment of the National Crop Protection Center
- The Secretary of Agriculture will collaborate with leading agricultural colleges and universities to establish a National Crop Protection Center.
- The Center will consolidate scientific and technical information, research, and field operations related to crop protection.
- Strategically located crop protection centers nationwide will form an effective network.
- The proposed establishment plan must be promptly submitted for presidential approval.
Immediate Effectivity of the Order
- This Letter of Instructions is effective immediately upon issuance.
- It mandates prompt action from relevant government agencies and local governments to address pest control threats to agriculture.