BACOLOD CITY — Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said the local sugar price needs to hit P3,000 per bag for the industry to remain profitable, noting that the current P2,600 per bag is barely enough for sugar producers to break even. Earlier, Lacson lauded the decision of sugar industry stakeholders to allocate for domestic market the entire sugar production of the current harvest season, with no sugar to be imported this year. “I’m very happy it was done in total agreement,” he said, adding that the projected 1.6 million metric tons output should be enough to meet local demand and give prices a chance to improve. Lacson, however, said that the present price level of sugar is not sustainable for farmers and millers who are facing higher input and labor costs. “At P2,600 a bag, we’re barely surviving. I’d like to see us reach P3,000 — that’s when our industry will truly be okay,” he said. He said there is no guarantee that prices will climb to P3,000, and a drop back to P2,600 would more difficulty to sugar producers. With the milling season underway, Lacson said prioritizing local supply is a key step to securing better returns and protecting the livelihood of thousands of Negros residents dependent on sugar farming and trade. Sugar farmers in the province were also affected by the infestation of agricultural pests, such as the red-striped soft wing insect, to sugarcane plants this year, Lacson said. EUGENE ADIONG
The Manila Times
Original source
