PROTECTING AGAINST HORNET INFESTATION

PROTECTING AGAINST HORNET INFESTATION

I believe in solving problems at the bud, before they would even grow into bigger problems. Such is the case of the Asian hornet, which is beginning to manifest itself as a problem in the Philippines now, although it is not yet as widespread as to cause an alarm.

Although largely unnoticed, hornets are a threat to our honey industry because they are predators of honeybees. The honey industry in the Philippines is growing steadily. In 2025, market revenue is projected to reach approximately $498.64 million, with an annual growth rate of 6.34% expected from 2025 to 2030. Local, organic honey is gaining popularity as consumers become more health conscious.

Simply put, a large-scale hornet infestation could mean the end of the honey industry, shutting down many cottage businesses. We should declare a war against hornets as early as now.

Who should lead us in this war? Obviously, it should be the Department of Agriculture (DA). But this is not a war that should be left to the DA alone. It would be best to form a Technical Working Group (TWG) with the DA as the lead agency. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), along with other state universities and colleges (SUCs) offering agriculture courses, should also be members.

While chemicals may offer quick relief, we must exercise caution. The indiscriminate use of chemicals against hornets could harm beneficial insects, wildlife, and even farm animals. Exploring non-chemical methods, such as pheromone traps and biological control, could provide more sustainable solutions.

Could there be good uses for these hornets? Some studies suggest that insects could become a sustainable source of protein or nutrients for animal feeds. Perhaps this is worth investigating further.

Additionally, pest control companies like Rentokil and MAPECON could partner with the government in developing environmentally responsible eradication strategies. These companies have the expertise to contribute to the containment of hornet infestations.

Hornets are also known to damage fruit crops, including apples, pears, and grapes. The government should conduct studies to identify other vulnerable fruits and develop protection plans. Furthermore, it is crucial to protect our mangrove trees from hornets. Mangroves play a vital role in our coastal ecosystems, acting as nurseries for marine life and protecting against coastal erosion.

In the Philippines, honey production is sustained by a network of small-scale farms, cottage industries, and indigenous communities. For example, Palawan Wild Honey is harvested by indigenous groups in Palawan, offering a unique flavor shaped by the region's diverse flora. Herrencia's Pure Wild Honey, a family-owned business in Las Piñas, and San Pedro Bee Farm in Laguna are other examples of small-scale honey producers. Supporting these enterprises through effective hornet management programs is essential for the survival of our honey industry.

Early intervention is the key to controlling hornet infestations. With the collaboration of government agencies, private sector partners, and agricultural institutions, we can protect our honeybees and ensure the continued growth of our honey industry. By taking decisive action now, we will prevent this looming threat from turning into a full-blown crisis. The time to act is now — let’s declare a war against hornets before they take over our fields and threaten our livelihoods.

Ramon Ike V. Seneres, www.facebook.com/ike.seneres

iseneres@yahoo.com, 09088877282, senseneres.blogspot.com

05-11-2025

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