Philippines’ Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) will now focus more on emerging technologies and research and development (R&D) to foster a sustainable industry.
SRA Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona, representing Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, expressed hope that this initiative would enhance the global competitiveness and sustainability of the sugar industry. Azcona shared this vision during the 70th Philsutech Convention at the Waterfront Hotel in Cebu City on Wednesday, August 14. He noted that strengthening partnerships with international collaborators, such as those from Japan who have introduced machinery and equipment to boost farm and mill efficiency, will be key to achieving these goals.
According to the news report published in Digicast Negros, in a speech read by Azcona, Secretary Laurel praised Philsutech for providing a platform for “emerging and innovative technologies that will shape a sustainable future for sugarcane agriculture.” Laurel emphasised that making farming profitable is the primary challenge, and adopting technology-based methods is crucial for optimizing resource use and reducing farm input costs.
As per news report, Laurel also instructed the SRA to broaden the scope of the Sugar Industry Development Act. This expansion should include fuel subsidies, liming and fertilization programs, irrigation, inclusive farm mechanization initiatives, and the establishment of a breeding program for high-yielding sugarcane varieties from other countries.
Azcona commended Philsutech for uniting industry stakeholders to discuss the future of the sugar sector.
