The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) recently intercepted a shipment from Thailand containing 3,200 cartons of fresh oranges, valued at PHP8.422 million, at the Manila International Container Port. The shipment was flagged by the DA's Bureau of Plant Industry for not having the necessary sanitary and phytosanitary import permits, which are crucial to ensure the safety of the produce for consumption and to prevent the introduction of pests harmful to local agriculture.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized the government's commitment to combating the smuggling of agricultural products, highlighting the risks such activities pose to public health, food security, and the well-being of Filipino farmers and consumers. He noted the importance of safeguarding the nation's borders against pests and diseases, drawing from past experiences with Avian Influenza and African Swine Fever.
The seizure is part of ongoing efforts by the DA and BOC to clamp down on the illegal importation of agricultural goods. Just a week prior, the agencies conducted a raid on a warehouse in Navotas, uncovering a large quantity of undocumented vegetables. The operation at the Manila International Container Port saw the collaboration of various units, including Customs Intelligence and Investigation Services and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), which conducted a K-9 sweep of the oranges, though no dangerous drugs were detected.
The confiscated oranges are set to undergo condemnation proceedings as per DA Department Order No. 09, series of 2010, to prevent their distribution in the local market. This action underlines the stringent measures being taken to protect the Philippines from the risks associated with illegally imported agricultural products. Additionally, the case has been referred to the Bureau Action Team Against Smuggling for further investigation and potential prosecution of those involved in the illegal importation.
Source: Department of Agriculture