Senate Deputy Majority Leader JV Ejercito has introduced Senate Bill No. 2114, a legislative measure designed to revitalize the domestic sugar industry and shield its workers from the adverse effects of excessive importation and systemic inefficiencies.
Ejercito emphasized that the sector is a vital agricultural pillar, providing livelihoods to roughly 88,000 sugarcane farmers and serving as a cornerstone for rural development and food security.
Despite its importance, he noted that the industry remains hampered by outdated milling processes, low productivity, and a lack of infrastructure.
“It is important that we take action on the problem in the sugar industry as soon as possible because it contributes greatly to food security, renewable energy, and the development of our rural areas,” he added.
A primary concern raised by the senator is the lackluster implementation of the Sugar Industry Development Act (SIDA) of 2015.
Ejercito pointed out that only 10% to 18% of available funds have been utilized, indicating a massive failure in program execution and planning. He further warned that uncontrolled importation has led to an oversupply, resulting in an estimated ₱11.8 billion in lost revenue.
“Such oversupply conditions have reportedly resulted in foregone revenues amounting to approximately ₱11.8 billion for sugar alone… thereby significantly impacting farmer incomes and industry sustainability,” he said.
To address these gaps, Senate Bill No. 2114 proposes:
- Inclusive Governance: Restructuring the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) to give small farmers a seat at the decision-making table.
- Financial Accountability: Ensuring public funds are strictly directed toward modernization and productivity.
- Trade Safeguards: Institutionalizing remedies to protect local producers from unfair international competition.
“Ultimately, this bill aims to build a more competitive, sustainable, and inclusive sugar industry that not only drives economic growth but also uplifts the lives of those who depend on it,” Ejercito said.
The filing follows the senator’s previous calls for a formal inquiry into the SIDA Law’s failures and the alleged over-importation of sugar that continues to threaten local sustainability.