DUMAGUETE CITY — Senatorial candidate and Makati Mayor Abby Binay on Thursday, 20 February, called for a clear government policy prohibiting sugar imports during the harvest season to protect local farmers and strengthen the industry.

In a press conference, Binay stressed the need for a firm regulation ensuring that no importation occurs while local sugarcane is being harvested, providing stability for sugar workers and producers.

“So let’s establish a clear policy. During harvest season, no importation. This must be explicitly stated and upheld to protect our farmers,” Binay said.

She noted that 80 percent of the country’s sugar supply comes from local production, while only 20 percent is imported. With the right policies, the Philippines has the potential to become a major sugar producer, she added.

Binay also emphasized the need to attract private investors to modernize sugar mills, which could help lower production costs and reduce sugar prices.

“We need an environment conducive to investment. Private investors should be encouraged to build advanced milling facilities so we can bring down the cost of sugar,” she said.

Achieving self-sufficiency in sugar production would have a significant economic impact, particularly in Negros, the country’s top sugar-producing region, Binay added.

“If we become 100 percent reliant on local sugar and even export our produce, it would be a huge boost to Negros’ economy,” she said.

On Wednesday, Binay met with officers and members of the Asociacion Agricola de Bais y Tanjay Inc., where they discussed key issues affecting the sugar industry.

Binay is in Dumaguete for the Proclamation Rally of Alyansa Para sa Bagong Pilipinas, where she continues her campaign for a Senate seat.