With the joint efforts of the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC), 588 metric tons of frozen mackerel worth P178.5 million, illegally imported from China, were intercepted at the Manila International Container Terminal (MICT).
DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel stated that the case constitutes attempted smuggling and can be included under the new anti-smuggling law signed by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. last September. This law is intended to combat rampant smuggling, profiteering, and hoarding of agricultural products.
“Pasok na pasok sa bagong anti-smuggling law, non-bailable ito kaya hahabulin natin iyan at ipapakulong,” he said during an inspection held at MICT, where the DA chief witnessed the opening of 3 of the 21 container vans of frozen mackerel that arrived at the MICT earlier this month.
“Meron talagang attempted smuggling dito, the BOC and DA will be formulating the case to be filed,” he added.
According to BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio, the labels alone provide solid evidence that will reveal the source of the smuggled mackerel. Rubio assured that authorities will trace those responsible and file charges against them, as they fall under the new anti-agricultural economic sabotage law.
The two agencies also reported that the importer of the frozen fish failed to produce a sanitary and phytosanitary import clearance when the shipment was unloaded at the MICT.
Upon inspection, the DA chief observed that the seized frozen mackerel was coated with a thin film of water, a technique called glazing. This trick, possibly applied by processors, increases the weight of the fish, allowing it to be sold at a higher price.
Meanwhile, after tests are conducted by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to ensure the fish is safe to eat, the DA chief said he plans to distribute it to areas affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine.
“Perfect ito para ipadala sa mga nasalanta ng bagyong Kristine. Mag-cocoordinate ang DA sa BOC kung paano ito mapapadala sa affected areas, in coordination with the Office of the President, once it has been approved safe for consumption,” he explained.
The DA continues to monitor fish supplies nationwide to counter profiteering and prevent further smuggling activities, in coordination with other government institutions. ### (Ira Y. Cruz, DA-AFID)
