Bacolod City (Philippines): The national government should take steps to protect local sugar industry and public health following the increase in import of artificial sweeteners, said Eugenio Jose Lacson, Governor, Negros Occidental, reports Inquirer.net.
Lacson issued a statement on Monday stating that the sugar industry in Negros Occidental continues to face serious challenges that require careful and balanced policy action.
He said the province, as the country’s main sugar producer, is concerned about recent developments in the sugar and sweetener market and their effects on the economy, consumer safety, and public health.
The governor said regulations should strike a balance by promoting public health, supporting informed food choices, and ensuring that local agricultural industries are not placed at a disadvantage.
Lacson said import records show a steady rise in artificial sweeteners entering the country. He said imports increased from 355,196 metric tons in 2021 to 448,499 metric tons in 2022, then to 473,029 metric tons in 2023 and 493,048 metric tons in 2024, before declining to 427,523 metric tons in 2025.
He said these import levels affect sugar-producing provinces like Negros Occidental by reducing demand for locally produced sugar and putting pressure on prices and incomes across the sector. According to Lacson, the impact is felt from farmers and mill workers to transport workers and small rural businesses that depend on the sugar industry.
The governor also said there is a public health concern that needs careful and science-based review, in line with the standards followed by the Department of Health and the Food and Drug Administration.
Lacson noted that some artificial sweeteners, such as sucralose, which is 600 times sweeter than natural sugar, are allowed for use within approved safety limits. He said this highlights the need for closer review of import rules and oversight.
He called on the national government and concerned agencies to review policies on artificial sweetener imports, ensure proper classification, strengthen coordination among agencies including the DOH and FDA, and take steps to protect both the local sugar industry and consumers.
Lacson said protecting the sugar industry in Negros Occidental is closely tied to safeguarding rural livelihoods, food security, and public health. He added that open discussion and evidence-based decisions could help achieve a fair balance that serves both producers and consumers.
United Sugar Producers Federation president Manuel Lamata welcomed the governor’s statement. Lamata, who met Lacson last week along with Sugar Regulatory Administrator Pablo Luis Azcona to raise concerns about the rise in artificial sweetener imports, thanked the governor for speaking out.
Lamata also pointed to possible health risks linked to artificial sweeteners, saying these products could harm the health of Filipinos and have been linked to serious side effects, including cancer.
