Makati City Mayor and senatorial candidate Abigail Binay has called on the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) to issue a directive that would halt the importation of sugar during the milling season.
Binay spoke with SRA Administrator Paul Azcona, encouraging him to formalize this directive. She stated, “Let us put into writing that it will be a policy that no importation will occur during the milling season. This will surely support our farmers and help maintain sugar prices.”
She emphasized that an official directive would prevent unnecessary disruptions in the sugar industry, ensuring local farmers receive fair prices for their products.
Previously, Binay advocated for a clear policy against sugar importation during the milling season after discussions with a group of sugar producers.
As a candidate from the Alyansa para sa Bagong Pilipinas, she believes this policy will strengthen the sugar industry and improve the livelihoods of sugar workers.
Binay highlighted that 80% of the country’s sugar supply is sourced locally, while only 20% is imported. She noted that the Philippines has the potential to become a major sugar producer if policies are implemented to encourage investments in modern sugar mills. These advancements would enhance local production capacity and help lower market prices.
If elected to the Senate, Binay plans to propose measures to support farmers and promote agricultural development.
