By CESAR JOLITO III

Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said yesterday that no sugar order has been issued so far, as the local sugar industry continues to struggle with low prices and stalled milling operations in the province.

Lacson said he consulted industry stakeholders after returning from a two-week absence and was informed that while discussions are ongoing, no concrete intervention has yet been approved.

Authorities and industry leaders, he said, are still awaiting a clear solution to address the prolonged decline in sugar prices, an issue that has persisted since late last year.

The governor expressed hope that milling operations, which were temporarily halted, may resume within the week.

He noted that the reopening of mills could help determine whether farmgate sugar prices will improve.

However, Lacson acknowledged the mounting difficulties faced by sugar planters, describing the situation as a “double whammy” caused by both reduced production and falling prices.

Some planters, he said, have already come to terms with the possibility of losses this season.

“We are hoping that if the impact is felt, it will be limited to this year and will not carry over to the succeeding crop cycles,” Lacson said.

As the province enters 2026, Lacson also shared his New Year’s wish for Negros Occidental, expressing hope for a peaceful and productive year ahead.

“I wish for a calamity-free 2026. I also wish everyone a healthy New Year and, hopefully, a prosperous year for everyone,” the governor said.

Negros Occidental, the country’s leading sugar-producing province, remains heavily dependent on the industry, making price volatility a major concern for thousands of planters, workers and related sectors./CJ, WDJ