Gov. Lacson warns vs, rising imports of artificial sweeteners

NEGROS Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson asked the government to address the mounting crisis in the province’s sugar industry, pointing at artificial sweeteners as one of the factors contributing to the low millgate price of sugar.

“As the country’s major sugar-producing province, we are particularly concerned about recent developments in the local sugar and sweetener market and their implications on economic sustainability, consumer protection and public health,” Lacson said.

“Alongside the economic impact, there is a public health aspect that warrants careful, science-based consideration, consistent with the principles upheld by the Department of Health (DOH) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA),” he said.

He said certain artificial sweeteners, such as sucralose, which is 600 times sweeter than natural sugar, are permitted for use within established safety limits.

But the DOH and FDA aligned guidance consistently emphasizes the importance of moderation, proper labeling, and informed consumer choice.

Lacson said Negros Occidental is closely monitoring market trends.

“Import data reveals consistent growth in artificial sweetener volumes: from 355,196 metric tons in 2021 to 448,499 metric tons in 2022, reaching 473,029 metric tons in 2023, 493,048 metric tons in 2024, and 427,523 metric tons in 2025,” he said.

“These imports are affecting demand for locally produced sugar, creating downward pressure on prices and impacting incomes across the value chain — from farmers and mill workers to transporters and small rural enterprises dependent on the industry,” he explained.

The provincial government, however, acknowledges the role of innovation in the food sector but stressed the importance of balanced regulation that protects public health, enables informed dietary decisions, and prevents disproportionate harm to local agricultural industries.

Lacson asked the national government and relevant agencies to: a) review import volumes and policies for artificial sweeteners; b) ensure proper product classification; c) strengthen coordination between economic and health bodies, including DOH and FDA and d) assess market and consumption impacts and to implement measures to support the local sugar industry while safeguarding consumer welfare.

“Protecting the sugar industry of Negros Occidental is inseparable from protecting rural livelihoods, food security, and public health,” the governor said.

“Through constructive dialogue and evidence-based policy action, we can achieve a fair and sustainable balance for both producers and consumers.”

Lacson attended the Senate-House public consultation in Talisay City, Negros Occidental, last Friday, where sugar farmers presented detailed production data, shared personal accounts of the crisis, and highlighted critical issues ranging from unfair pricing structures and unmanageable operational costs to inconsistent regulations and worker welfare concerns.

The legislators who attended the meeting vowed to pursue concrete actions to address the crisis.