The Philippines is set to produce more sugar than initially expected this crop year, despite challenges from the El Niño phenomenon, the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) said Monday, May 19.
Sugar output is now projected to reach 1.837 million metric tons (MT), nearly 5% higher than the earlier forecast of 1.782 million MT. As of now, production has hit 1.815 million MT.
SRA Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona credited the increase to higher sugarcane tonnage per hectare, even as the sugar yield per ton of cane (LkgTC) remained modest. “We are ending on a positive note. This reflects our efforts to stabilize prices and support farmers since 2022,” he said.
Visayas Leads, Mindanao Rises
The Visayas continues to dominate sugar production, contributing 71% of the total, led by Negros Island with 63%. Panay follows with 6.3%, while Cebu and Leyte account for smaller shares.
Mindanao’s performance stood out this year. It is expected to contribute nearly 24% of national output, with the highest average LkgTC at 1.74. In comparison, Negros averaged 1.65, while Panay and Luzon both posted 1.54. Luzon is forecast to deliver close to 5% of total production.
Recovery Fueled by Research and Farmer Support
Azcona said initial low projections were based on concerns over crop health after El Niño hit the country in 2023–2024. However, government initiatives—including fair farm gate prices and the rollout of new sugarcane varieties—helped farmers recover.
“Farmers were encouraged to replant damaged canes, confident that stable prices could offset high production costs,” Azcona explained. This optimism also attracted new growers to the sector.
The SRA’s emphasis on research is now showing results. Recent efforts include developing improved sugarcane varieties, enhancing soil health, upgrading irrigation systems, and adjusting cropping schedules to adapt to climate conditions.
“These are long-term investments paying off,” Azcona said, as the industry looks to build resilience against future climate disruptions.
