Bukidnon Sugar Mills Begin Crushing Season Amid Cost Pressures

MARAMAG, Bukidnon — The sugarcane milling season has begun in earnest across Bukidnon, with industrial facilities receiving their first deliveries of freshly cut cane on Monday. The official commencement of the 2026-2027 crushing campaign marks a significant period for the region's sugar industry, which ranks among the country's principal agricultural sectors.

Bukidnon's milling operations follow by approximately one month the start of crushing activities on Negros Island, where mills commenced work on October 1. The staggered schedule reflects the geographic distribution of the Philippines' sugarcane production across multiple regions.

The opening of the season coincides with industry-wide concerns over mounting production costs. Millers and farmers face increased expenses across operational inputs, presenting economic headwinds as the sector enters its peak processing period. Industry stakeholders have flagged the cost pressures as a significant challenge for profitability during the current cycle.

The milling campaign, which typically extends several months, will determine regional output levels and farmer revenues for the season. Industry observers will closely monitor production volumes and market conditions as operations accelerate across Bukidnon's processing infrastructure.