By CESAR JOLITO III
The sugar sector should have already reduced its dependence on imports and significantly improved production output seven years following the enactment of the Sugarcane Industry Development Act (SIDA), a senator said.
Speaking as guest of honor during the 30th Panaad sa Negros Festival’s opening ceremony, Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito expressed concern over the industry’s continued struggles, saying it has yet to achieve the intended level of self-sufficiency despite billions in allocated funding.
“It seems the Department of Agriculture is leaning toward importation,” Ejercito said, underscoring the need to revisit strategies to strengthen local production.
He emphasized his commitment to ensuring that SIDA delivers its intended benefits, particularly for Negros Island, where the economy heavily relies on sugar.
Ejercito, one of the principal authors of SIDA, noted that the law provides an annual allocation of P2 billion to support the development of the sugarcane industry.
However, he raised questions on why these funds were not fully utilized, adding that allocations were even reduced to P300 million in recent years.
Ejercito met separately with leaders of major industry groups, including the United Sugar Producers Federation of the Philippines and the Confederation of Sugar Producers Associations Inc., to gather insights and recommendations as he pushes for amendments to the law aimed at addressing long-standing issues in the sector.
He also held initial discussions with Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson and Vice Governor Jose Benito Alonso regarding the challenges faced by the sugar industry in Negros Occidental, the country’s top sugar-producing province.
Among the concerns raised by Ejercito was the continued importation of agricultural commodities such as sugar, rice and onions — even during local harvest seasons.
The senator also questioned current policies, noting that the Philippines was once a major exporter of these products.
He also cited his personal connection to the region, noting that his mother, former San Juan Mayor Guia Gomez, is a Negrense.
The senator announced plans to return to Negros Occidental for further consultations with farmers, business leaders, and other stakeholders to refine proposed amendments to SIDA and help steer the industry toward recovery and sustainability./CJ, WDJ