The Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) expects raw sugar production to reach 1.78 million metric tons (MMT) this year, according to Administrator and CEO Pablo Luis Azcona.
“Our estimate is only 1.78 [MMT] because of El Niño — that’s a major factor. We anticipate the El Niño damage,” Azcona said in a statement.
As of February 9, production stood at 930,878 metric tons. Azcona remains hopeful that the numbers will rise, particularly as some farms in the northern part of the Negros Island Region have yet to complete their harvests because of persistent rains.
Azcona stated that large sugarcane farms with access to water are performing well in terms of tonnage, although the sugar yield from the canes remains low. However, he pointed out that these large farms make up only 10 percent of the sugar industry, and many other farms continue to face irrigation issues.
Farms without irrigation are also dealing with higher production costs, as farmers are forced to plant and apply fertilizer twice due to the effects of El Niño.
The SRA is aiming for a 20 per cent increase in sugar production. When asked if this goal is achievable under the Marcos administration, Azcona said it is possible on a smaller scale but would require significant nationwide changes.
“We need to focus on improving sugarcane varieties and modernizing farming techniques,” he said.
However, Azcona acknowledged that some farmers are hesitant to adopt new practices. From his experience, it took him several years to convince them to adjust their planting methods, such as modifying row spacing.
It is difficult to implement changes in sugarcane farming because “you plant as you harvest,” Azcona said.
The SRA is also investing in research and development, setting aside P17 million to acquire two new soil analysis machines. The bidding and awarding of suppliers are scheduled for June, with the machines expected to be delivered in 2026.
