Senator Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito has filed a bill seeking to strengthen the sugar industry and protect its farmers and workers from over-importation, weak program implementation and declining incomes.

(Sugar Regulatory Administration-Bukidnon Mill District photo)

In filing Senate Bill No. 2114, Ejercito said it is imperative to improve the functions of the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA), rationalize the use of industry funds and introduce safeguards to protect local producers from unfair competition.

“The sugar industry in the Philippines is an important pillar of our agriculture because it is the source of livelihood for approximately 88,000 sugarcane farmers,” Ejercito said.

“It is important that we take action on the problem in the sugar industry as soon as possible because it contributes greatly to food security, renewable energy, and the development of our rural areas,” he added.

Ejercito lamented that the industry until now continues to struggle with systemic problems, limiting its growth and competitiveness.

These problems include over-importation, low farm productivity, outdated milling system, limited access to financing, weak infrastructure and increasing global competition.

The senator also flagged the poor and inefficient implementation of the Sugar Industry Development Act (SIDA) or Republic Act No. 10659 or the SIDA Law of 2015, which was enacted supposedly to promote the growth and competitiveness of the Philippine sugar industry.

He noted that available funds under SIDA have not been fully utilized to benefit farmers and stakeholders.

“Reported utilization rates ranging only from approximately 10 percent to 18 percent, reflecting serious gaps in absorptive capacity, planning, and program execution,” he said.

Moreover, he said there is continued instability in sugar supply and pricing, largely attributed to importation policies that may be contributing to oversupply.

“Such oversupply conditions have reportedly resulted in foregone revenues amounting to approximately P11.8 billion for sugar alone… thereby significantly impacting farmer incomes and industry sustainability,” he said.

Under SBN 2114, Ejercito proposed a more “responsive and inclusive governance structure” within the SRA to ensure that small farmers and key stakeholders have a stronger voice in decision-making.

The bill also aims to ensure that public funds are effectively used to improve productivity, modernize the industry, and support infrastructure development.

The measure also seeks the institutionalization of trade remedies and safeguards to protect the local industry while remaining compliant with international commitments.

“Ultimately, this bill aims to build a more competitive, sustainable, and inclusive sugar industry that not only drives economic growth but also uplifts the lives of those who depend on it,” he said.

Earlier, Ejercito filed Senate Resolution No. 380, seeking a congressional inquiry into the implementation of the SIDA Law to identify gaps, strengthen support for farmers and stakeholders, and ensure the long-term competitiveness and sustainability of the sugar industry.

He also filed Senate Resolution No. 369 last April, asking the Senate to probe the alleged over-importation of sugar and its impact on the local industry.