The Philippines is one of the largest sugar producers in the world, with around seventeen provinces involved in the growing of sugarcane as their primary income. Currently, Network of Asia and Pacific Producers has 05 cane sugar producers in the region:- Dama Farm Workers Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Association FLO ID 29041, Maria Cecilia Farm Workers Association (MACFAWA) Inc. FLO ID 33614, Nakalang Farm Workers Association Inc. FLO ID 33613, Nakalang Padilla Farm Workers Association FLO ID 29161 and Pandanon Integrated Balangon Farm Workers Association Inc. FLO ID 33612. Over 1100MT of Fairtrade sugar is supplied from the region via their Fairtrade Trader- Alter trade Philippines Foundation for Food Sovereignty, Inc. (ATPF).
They stand together in solidarity with their partners and farmers across the globe and speak on the necessary supports needed to maintain a reliable sugar supply for businesses and to ensure a sustainable future for farmers and their families. Fairtrade International has recently announced increased flexibility in its standards to enable producer organizations to take immediate action to protect the health and livelihoods of farmers, workers, and their communities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The new guidance confirms that producer organizations can spend Fairtrade Premium funds more flexibly to minimize the spread of disease by taking immediate measures. In 2019 the 05 SPOs received €47818 in Fairtrade Premium. Continuous support from the FT partners and consumers will not only help them to endure this crisis but also enable them to get back on their feet.
