Bacolod city: An official of the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) has called for unity in developing long-term strategies for the sugar industry as millgate sugar prices witnessed an uptick last week. Sugar Board Member David Andrew Sanson, representing the planters, emphasized the importance of sustainable actions to tackle production, pricing, marketing, and other challenges within the industry.

According to Philippines News Agency, Sanson expressed appreciation for the rising prices of sugar and molasses and noted that mills in Negros Occidental's northern region have already shown significant increases, with southern mills expected to follow suit. In recent bidding, sugar prices rose to PHP2,300 to PHP2,400 per 50-kilo bag, after stagnating between PHP2,100 and PHP2,200 for over three months. Likewise, molasses prices surged past the PHP9,000 mark, up from previous levels of PHP7,000 to PHP8,000.

Sanson attributed the price increase mainly to the export program approved by the Sugar Board, which was planned since November last year, despite resistance from some federations and stakeholders. He noted that certain groups had advocated for a declaration by the SRA and the Department of Agriculture against importation until December 2026, believing it would stabilize prices. However, Sanson stated that their approach failed, and the current program is benefiting farmers with improved sugar and molasses prices.

He highlighted the necessity for the industry to avoid repeating the past three months' situation, where prices were not sustainable for some farmers, particularly smaller ones. Sanson urged for a united front in creating a long-term plan to maintain fair prices, promote open-mindedness, and set aside differences for the industry's benefit.