Crackdown on Unregistered Cooking Oil in Santiago City
Authorities in Santiago City, Isabela, seized a large quantity of unregistered cooking oil valued at over P1.3 million. Two Indian nationals were arrested after a joint operation by the Philippine National Police – Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – Cagayan Valley Region on June 26.
The operation took place in Barangay Patul, targeting the illegal trade of unregistered cooking oil. This buy-bust led to the arrest of a mother and son caught selling the cooking oil without proper authorization. This incident highlights the ongoing efforts to regulate food safety and protect public health.
Legal Violations and Public Health Risks
The arrested individuals face charges under Section 10 of Republic Act No. 9711, the Food and Drug Administration Act of 2009. This law prohibits the manufacture, importation, sale, distribution, or transfer of health and food products without the necessary FDA approval.
Since the confiscated cooking oil did not undergo the FDA’s evaluation, its safety and quality remain unverified. Such unregulated products pose significant health risks to consumers, potentially leading to food poisoning or long-term health issues.
Details of the Seizure
The CIDG reported that 273 containers of the alleged unregistered cooking oil were recovered from the suspects. The total worth of these products exceeded P1.3 million. The operation successfully halted the sale of these goods, which were being traded without a license to operate.
CIDG acting director Police Brigadier General Romeo Macapaz emphasized the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health. He stated, “It is the policy of the state to protect and promote the right to health of the Filipino people; and help establish and maintain an effective health products regulatory system.”
He added that the confiscation of these products helps prevent health and safety risks among consumers.
Ongoing Efforts to Protect Consumers
This recent bust reflects intensified efforts by authorities to crack down on illicit food products and ensure compliance with health standards. The collaboration between law enforcement and health regulators plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the food supply chain.
Consumers are advised to remain vigilant and to only purchase food products from legitimate, licensed sources. Authorities continue to monitor and conduct operations to prevent the distribution of potentially harmful goods.
For more news and updates on unregistered cooking oil, visit Filipinokami.com.
