Thanks for the response.
Locals called it aphids but its not an insect. When I pointed that out they had no idea either. We gave it a spray with some general stuff they use on their crops but not much has changed. When I rub the white stuff off it leaves an orange stain on my fingers but seems to not come back. However the brown things are embedded into the leaf surface and dont rub off. I have a lot of these plants along my wall line forming a hedge. These are in a different location and only appears on the plants in that area.
Looking at it this morning the spread appears to be slowing. It's not hurting the plants any, no discoloration or die-back. Wife suggested I try tobacco water as a spray and see. I'll keep monitoring.
Again thatnks for the response.