Giant soft drink manufacturers Coca-Cola Beverage Inc., ARC Refreshment Corp., and Pepi Products Philippines Inc. (PCPPI) on Tuesday confirmed that there is a shortage of premium refined sugar, a key ingredient in their products.

In a joint statement, the soft drink makers said that they are facing a shortage of sugar supply.

“We are working closely with other stakeholders of the industry and the government to address the situation,” they assured.

The soft drinks makers also thanked the customers and the public for their continued support of their products and for understanding the situation.

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., agriculture secretary and also chairman of the Sugar Regulatory Board, earlier made a pronouncement that the Philippines may import 150 thousand metric tons of sugar due to the foreseen supply shortage by October.

Marcos earlier rejected the issuance of Sugar Order no.4, directing the importation of 300 thousand metric tons of sugar.

Malacañang called the sugar import “illegal” as it was signed without the authority and approval of the President.