THE SUGAR INDUSTRY IN THE ISLAND 

 OF NEGROS. 



By Herbert S. Walker. 

 [From the chemical laboratory, Bureau of Science, Iloilo sugar laboratory.) 



INTRODUCTION. 



The Philippine Islands in general and the Island of Negros in par- 

 ticular, with reference to the condition of their sugar industry, have 

 probably been as thoroughly discussed and investigated as any sugar- 

 producing country in the world, and with as little true knowledge of 

 the facts. At least two large volumes bearing directly on this subject 

 have already been published/ 'containing most highly variegated and 

 conflicting testimony from more or less prejudiced parties. Wliile un- 

 doubtedly many time and conservative statements are contained therein, 

 they are so covered up by a mass of exaggerated conjectures and 

 estimates made by over-eager friends and enemies of the Philippines 

 as to be practically valueless as a source of information. During the 

 past year, however, the Bureau of Internal Eevenue has made a very 

 thorough study of the sugar industry in these Islands from a statistical 

 point of view, and secured reliable data as to the total area of lands 

 planted and available for sugar culture . and the amount of sugar ac- 

 tually produced in eaCh municipality throughout the Islands, together 

 with statements from individual planters in regard to the cost of 

 production. 



The object of the present investigation Avas to learn at first hand 

 the conditions of agricultural practice in cane growing and sugar 

 making actually prevailing here at the present time, and thus to 

 prepare a foundation on which to base future efforts toward the ad- 

 vancement of the industry. It is obvious that only with an exact 

 knowledge of facts concerning our own resources and conditions can 

 we hope, by comparing them with those of other countries, to suggest 

 means or to work out methods for their improvement. With this end 



* Headings before the Committee on Ways and Means, 1905. Hearings before 



the Committee on the Philippines of the United States Senate, 1906. 



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