After urging the government on Thursday to establish clear government policy prohibiting sugar imports during the harvest season to protect local farmers and strengthen the industry, Makati Mayor and senatorial candidate Abby Binay said she recently spoke with SRA Administrator Paul Azcona regarding the issue.

"Let us put into writing that it will be a policy that no importation will be done during the milling season. Because that will surely support all our farmers so that sugar prices don’t collapse," Binay said.

She stressed that an official order would provide much-needed assurance to farmers, ensuring they are not undercut by an influx of imported sugar.

"This will give our farmers something concrete to rely on, putting it in black and white rather than just verbal statements from the administration," she added.

Binay previously called for a definitive government stance against sugar imports during milling season following discussions with sugar producers.

She emphasized that the policy would strengthen the local sugar industry and improve the livelihood of sugar workers. Currently, 80 percent of the country’s sugar supply comes from local producers, with only 20 percent being imported.

According to Binay, the Philippines has the potential to become a major sugar producer if the right policies are implemented. She believes that investing in modern sugar mills could boost local production and lower consumer prices.

If elected to the Senate, Binay vowed to push for legislative measures supporting farmers and promoting agricultural development.