By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
The release of an illicit shipment containing 580 metric tons of seized frozen mackerel to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) was requested by Agriculture chief Franciso Tiu Laurel, Jr. on Monday (Nov. 25) to the Bureau of Customs (BOC), citing humanitarian and food security concerns.
The confiscated shipment, comprising 21 container vans loaded with frozen mackerel, arrived at the Manila International Container Port in early October without the required sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances.
A joint team from the Department of Agriculture’s Inspectorate and Enforcement Office and the BOC intercepted and seized the shipment, valued at approximately P178.5 million.
Following the confiscation, Sec. Tiu Laurel directed BFAR to conduct laboratory tests to evaluate the suitability of the smuggled shipment of pelagic fish for distribution to typhoon-affected communities, eventually confirming that it is fit for human consumption, with no signs of spoilage or contamination.
“Consequently, the fish products are deemed fit for immediate release and can be utilized to address food security needs, especially in relief operations,” Sec. Tiu Laurel said. “This initiative would support the DSWD and the Department of Agriculture’s ongoing efforts to provide essential aid to victims of the recent typhoon,” he added.
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