Law Summary
Purpose and Scope
This Circular Letter issued by the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) mandates the segregation of imported raw sugar classified as "C" or Reserve sugar from domestically produced raw sugar.
- Legal Principle: The SRA exercises regulatory functions to ensure proper management and control over sugar inventories.
- Applicability: The directive applies to all sugar mills/refineries and bulk terminal/loading ports involved in the storage of both sugar types.
Segregation Requirements
All concerned entities are required to maintain clear and distinct separation between the two types of sugar to prevent co-mingling.
Key Definitions:
- Imported Raw Sugar: Sugar brought into the country, classified as "C" or Reserve sugar by the SRA.
- Domestically Produced Raw Sugar: Sugar produced within the Philippines.
Important Requirements:
- Sugar mills/refineries must ensure that their warehouses have a distinct separation for imported and domestically produced sugar.
- Bulk terminal/loading ports must also segregate their stored sugar accordingly.
Inventory Management
The segregation is crucial for the accuracy and precision of physical sugar inventories.
- Procedures:
- The SRA may conduct physical inventories at its discretion to verify compliance with the segregation requirement.
Implementation Timeline
- Effective Date: This Circular Letter takes effect immediately upon adoption, dated May 20, 1996.
Penalties and Compliance
While the document does not specify penalties for non-compliance, failure to adhere to the segregation requirements may lead to regulatory scrutiny or potential penalties under applicable laws.
Cross-References
This Circular Letter does not provide specific cross-references to other laws or regulations; however, it operates within the framework of the SRA's regulatory authority over the sugar industry.
Key Takeaways
- The SRA mandates strict segregation of imported "C" or Reserve sugar from domestically produced raw sugar to prevent co-mingling.
- Compliance is necessary for accurate inventory management and may involve SRA inspections.
- The directive is effective immediately from May 20, 1996, and applies to all relevant sugar industry stakeholders.