Sugar industry still admin priority

THE sugar industry remains a priority under President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto said on Thursday, pledging to review stakeholder concerns and elevate them to relevant offices for policy consideration.

Following a meeting with the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform Chair Francis Pancratius “Kiko” N. Pangilinan on Wednesday, Mr. Recto sought to align strategies to tackle urgent challenges in the sector.

The Office of the Executive Secretary (OES) said the meeting was part of the Marcos administration’s wider initiative to develop coordinated and responsive measures for the sugar industry amid ongoing challenges in production, pricing and supply.

“The Executive Secretary also stressed the importance of close coordination between the executive and legislative branches, as well as continuous dialogue with farmers, millers, and other stakeholders,” the OES said in a statement.

Mr. Pangilinan outlined key policy recommendations to stabilize production and improve market conditions, emphasizing the urgency of coordinated government action.

Mr. Recto also highlighted the importance of strong coordination between the Executive and Legislative branches to ensure policies are implemented effectively. — Chloe Mari A. Hufana