Authorities Seize Largest Haul of Smuggled Agricultural Products
At Subic Bay Freeport, authorities conducted a major inspection on Tuesday, July 8, targeting agricultural products imported from China. This operation marked what could be the largest single confiscation under the recently enforced Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act. The keyphrase “smuggled agricultural products at” appears early as this investigation unfolded.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. led a team from multiple government agencies that examined 10 of the 31 container vans flagged for allegedly carrying smuggled agricultural goods. These containers were intercepted within the freeport, raising concerns over illegal importation practices.
Contents and Value of Smuggled Agricultural Products at Subic Bay
In a public statement, Secretary Laurel revealed that the seized containers contained frozen mackerel, fresh carrots, and yellow onions. These items were imported without the required regulatory clearances, violating national agricultural import laws. The estimated worth of the confiscated goods stands at around ₱100 million. When considering all 31 flagged containers, the total value could escalate to several hundred million pesos.
“These products will undergo thorough testing to ensure they are safe for human consumption. Any item deemed unfit will be destroyed immediately. Protecting public health and supporting local farmers and fisherfolk remain our top priorities,” Laurel emphasized.
Clarifications and Further Seizures
The Bureau of Customs corrected earlier reports about the number of containers under scrutiny. Initially reported as 59, the actual count is 52 due to some containers being subject to double alerts. Of these, 21 have already been examined and cleared for release after approval by the Department of Agriculture.
Since early June, the Department of Agriculture has issued 15 alert requests, leading to the seizure of 76 container vans suspected of carrying smuggled goods. Among these, 59 arrived at Subic Bay Freeport.
Authorities continue to monitor and enforce regulations rigorously, aiming to curb illegal importation that threatens the integrity of the country’s agricultural sector.
For more news and updates on smuggled agricultural products at Subic Bay Freeport, visit Filipinokami.com.