MANILA, Philippines – On Tuesday, representatives from several beverage bottling and manufacturing companies declared In a joint statement that the industry is now experiencing a shortage of premium refined sugar.
This includes Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines Inc, Pepsi-Cola Products Philippines Inc, and RC Cola maker ARC Refreshments.
“We confirm our industry is facing a shortage of premium refined sugar, a key ingredient in many of our products.”
COKE, PEPSI, RC COLA
“We are working closely with other stakeholders of the industry and the government to address the situation,” the statement added.
President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr has met with industry players and other key agencies to resolve the supply woes.
Several officers of the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) resigned amid the difficulties because of the contentious resolution that approved the import of 300,000 metric tons of sugar, which the Malacanang Palace subsequently stated was illegal.
The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry, on the other hand, is in favor of the temporary importation of sugar as a means of mitigating the impact of rising prices.
While washed and brown sugar costs between P75 and P78 per kilo, refined sugar continues to cost more than P100 per kilogram.