Manila: Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. reassured stakeholders within the sugar industry that the importation of sugar remains a strategic tool for market and price stabilization, rather than being a primary policy directive of the current administration.
According to Philippines News Agency, Tiu Laurel addressed these concerns during the 72nd Philippine Sugar Technologists Association annual national convention, which concluded last Friday. He emphasized, "Sugar importation is not the policy of this administration. It is a tool for price and market stabilization to be used when necessary and under clearly defined circumstances."
Tiu Laurel further elaborated that future importations will be carefully calibrated to meet the country's needs, ensuring that import volumes are neither excessive nor insufficient. He pointed out that the current import policy is transparent and equitable, relying on allocations earned through the purchase of local sugar, thereby eliminating discretionary power in allocation decisions.
"Our fundamental policy remains clear. We want a Philippine sugar industry that is stronger, more productive, more competitive, and more self-reliant," he stated. The industry is currently grappling with challenges such as high production costs, rising input prices, labor shortages, limited financing, climate change, and pests like the red-striped soft scale insect (RSSI).
To combat the RSSI outbreak, Tiu Laurel announced the formation of a national task force under the DA and the Sugar Regulatory Administration. This task force will coordinate RSSI-related efforts and provide guidance to farmers on government assistance and pest control protocols.
Looking ahead, the DA has earmarked PHP300 million for 2027 to establish municipal biological agent laboratories and incubation centers in sugar-growing regions to prevent future pest resurgences. Tiu Laurel urged the industry to view challenges as opportunities for advancement in mechanization, climate-smart agriculture, and innovation.
He highlighted the importance of technological advancements in boosting the income of local growers and building a resilient industry capable of anticipating and adapting to future challenges.
