By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The Sugar Alliance yesterday denied allegations their demonstration and boycott of Coca-Cola are being funded by a rival competitor.
“The rally last March 20 was entirely the effort of various stakeholders,” spokesperson, Atty. Emilio Yulo, said.
He acknowledged, however, “We also recognize the fact there may be indirect beneficiaries in this call to boycott Coke.”
Meanwhile, he also confirmed the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Negros Occidental will also be joining the boycott.
He added, “Some of our members are not allowing the entry of the beverage firm into their haciendas and local stores.”
The earlier protest was sparked following the proposal by Department of Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel Piñol to suspend Sugar Order No. 3, enacted by the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA), which regulated the importation of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS).
At the end of the event, demonstrators burned an effigy of Piñol and Coca-Cola./WDJ