NEGROS Occidental — Governor Eugenio Jose “Bong” Lacson said on Monday that no sugar order has been issued to date, as the province’s sugar industry continues to grapple with low prices and stalled milling operations.
Lacson said he consulted key industry stakeholders upon returning from a two-week absence and was informed that while discussions are ongoing, no concrete intervention has yet been approved. He noted that authorities and industry leaders are still awaiting a clear solution to address the prolonged decline in sugar prices, which began late last year.
The governor expressed optimism that milling operations, which were temporarily halted, may resume within the week. He said the reopening of mills could help assess whether farmgate sugar prices will improve.
However, Lacson acknowledged the growing challenges faced by sugar planters, describing the situation as a “double whammy” brought about by both reduced production and falling prices. He said some planters have already accepted the likelihood of financial losses this milling season.
“We are hoping that if the impact is felt, it will be limited to this year and will not carry over to the succeeding crop cycles,” Lacson said.
As the province enters 2026, the governor also shared his New Year’s wish for Negros Occidental, expressing hope for a peaceful and productive year ahead.
“I wish for a calamity-free 2026. I also wish everyone a healthy New Year and, hopefully, a prosperous year for everyone,” he added.
Negros Occidental, the country’s leading sugar-producing province, remains heavily dependent on the sugar industry, making price volatility a major concern for thousands of planters, mill workers, and related sectors./PN
