Sugar Production Expected To Rise Despite El Niño Impact
Sugar production in the Philippines is projected to be nearly five percent higher than the initial forecasts, even with the challenges posed by the El Niño weather phenomenon. According to sources familiar with the matter, sugar production could reach 1.837 million metric tons (MT), surpassing the earlier estimate of 1.782 million MT.
This increase in output is mainly due to the growth in sugarcane tonnage per hectare planted, despite a lower yield per ton of cane (LKGTC). Currently, the country has produced about 1.815 million metric tons of sugar.
Regional Contributions to Sugar Production
The Visayas region remains the largest contributor, accounting for 71% of the total sugar output. Within this area, Negros Island leads with 63%, followed by Panay with 6.3%. The remaining production comes from Cebu and Leyte.
Meanwhile, Mindanao is expected to contribute nearly 24% of the nation’s sugar production by the end of the crop year. Luzon’s share is smaller but still significant, accounting for close to 5% of the total output.
Impact of El Niño and Price Stabilization Efforts
Local experts explain that the initial low estimate was influenced by concerns over the health and condition of sugarcane crops following the El Niño period from 2023 to 2024. However, the final numbers reveal a more optimistic outcome.
“We are ending on a positive note and we can attribute this to the effort of this administration in helping stabilize prices since 2022,” community leaders said. Fair farm gate prices encouraged farmers to take the risk of replanting sugarcane damaged by El Niño, using new varieties developed by regulatory bodies, with hopes that prices would offset the high production costs.
Additionally, these fair prices have motivated new farmers to start planting sugarcane, contributing to the overall production increase.
Yield Performance by Region
Mindanao currently leads in average sugar yield per ton of cane, with an LKGTC of 1.74. Negros follows at 1.65, while Panay and Luzon both have averages of 1.54. This data supports the positive outlook on sugar production despite weather adversities.
Research and Development Driving Growth
Sources indicate that the focus on research and development is beginning to yield significant benefits. Efforts include creating and distributing new sugarcane varieties, improving soil quality, enhancing irrigation systems, and adjusting the cropping calendar to better suit environmental conditions.
These strategic initiatives have helped farmers adapt more effectively to climate challenges, leading to better overall productivity.
For more news and updates on sugar production, visit Filipinokami.com.