Helopeltis bakeri P., cacao mirid bug is one of the upcoming pests in the Philippines which results in the reduction of quality cocoa beans intended for processing. Sustainable pest management is essential for the effective control of this pest. Monitoring of its infestation in the plantations and the extent of pod damage is important information for the success of its control. Thus, the infestation of H. bakeri was monitored in selected municipalities in the mainland of the Bicol region, for a period of three months. Percentage-infested trees and damage ratings on cacao pods were recorded. Mirid bug-infested tress in cacao plantation was obtained at Gubat, Sorsogon with 23.85%, Guinobatan, Albay with 35%, Sipocot, Camarines Sur with 34.48%, and Labo, Camarines Norte with 0%. Pod damage on cacao along the three monthly monitoring periods increased in Sorsogon from 70.83% to 87.50%, decreased in Albay with 93.75% to 48.75%, and decreased in Camarines Sur from 87.92% to 85.42%. Zero pod damage in Camarines Norte for the period of 3 months. Continuous monitoring of the cacao mirid bug infestation and cacao pod borer occurrence is recommended as the basis for timely control.
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