Sugar farmers urge two-week delay in milling start

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY—Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona announced that several farmers’ groups have approached him, requesting a two-week delay in the start of the milling season.

Speaking at the Philsutech Convention in Cebu City on Thursday, Azcona stated that if the mills can coordinate and agree to a two-week delay, it would be a win-win solution for the industry.

In 2003, the SRA also delayed the opening of the milling season to September 1, two weeks later than originally planned. This year, the milling season is set to begin on September 15.

Following the announcement, Victorias Milling Company and Universal Robina Corporation, two of the largest mill operators, indicated they have “no objection” to the proposed two-week delay.

Renato Cabati, Managing Director of URC, expressed strong agreement for all mills to start operations simultaneously, particularly in Negros Occidental, where mills typically begin earlier than those in other parts of the country.

Azcona acknowledged that while a September 15 opening had been agreed upon last year, the prolonged drought was unforeseen, leaving many farmers still in recovery.

Harvesting the cane by September 15 would yield less sugar for farmers, he noted.

He further explained that if most farmers are unwilling to cut their cane prematurely, the mills could face intermittent operations, which would be costly in the long run.

“We need our mills to run efficiently and at full capacity,” Azcona added.

The SRA chief also urged Terence Uygongco of the Philippine Sugar Millers Association, who was present at the plenary, to bring the mills together and “make a collective decision that benefits all,” particularly the farmers.

Azcona highlighted that while larger planters could afford the delay, smaller farmers might struggle with having their income delayed for even two weeks.

He emphasized the need for mills, associations, and the SRA to offer incentives, loans, and guidance to help farmers understand that a higher yield, resulting from the delay, would ultimately lead to greater profits if all parties agree.

He also mentioned that mills in Luzon have informed him that they plan to delay their opening by a month.

Meanwhile, Azcona hinted that Sugar Order No. 1 would designate 100% of the production as B sugar (domestic sugar).