Recto says issues in sugar industry elevated to concerned offices

Sugar industry is among the priorities of the Marcos administration and issues have already been raised to concerned offices, according to Executive Secretary Ralph Recto.

Recto made the assurance during his meeting with Senator Francis Pangilinan on Wednesday, with the aim to align steps to address concerns within the sugar sector. 

In the meeting, Pangilinan cited challenges confronting farmers, mill workers, and consumers. He also outlined some key police recommendations to stabilize the sector. 

Pangilinan raised issues which include high production costs, declining farm incomes, supply volatility, as well as the long-term impact of importation policies on local producers.

“Nararapat na magkaroon ang ating industriya ng asukal ng transparent at balanseng polisiya at estratehiya na naglalayong protektahan hindi lamang ang industriya, kundi ang mga manggagawa na araw-araw nagpapakahirap panatilihing itong buhay—ang ating mga magsasaka,” Pangilinan said in a separate press statement.

(We should have a transparent sugar industry and balance policies and strategies that aim to protect not just the industry but also the workers who work hard to keep this industry alive-our farmers.)

“We must ensure that solutions are fair, evidence-based, and responsive to the realities on the ground,” Pangilinan added.

Recto, in response, said the issues would be reviewed and elevated to the appropriate offices for policy consideration as part of the administration's broader effort to craft responsive interventions for the sector.

He also emphasized the importance of close coordination between the executive and legislative branches, as well as the continued coordination with farmers, millers, and other stakeholders.

During a public consultation with the House of Representatives and sugar planters in Talisay City, Negros Occidental, Pangilinan identified the challenges that plague the multi-billion-peso industry.

The senator pointed out the massive impact of the sugar industry on the country’s economy and the livelihood of farmers and other industry stakeholders.

“The sugar industry supports hundreds of thousands of Filipino families. Any policy decision must take into account its effect on farmers’ livelihoods, food security, and rural development,” Pangilinan said. 

“This situationer is meant to provide a clear picture of where the industry stands and what immediate and long-term actions are needed,'' he added. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News