D.A. eyes distribution of smuggled, ‘safe’ frozen fish to 210-K disaster-hit families

By Stephanie Sevillano | Philippine News Agency

The Department of Agriculture (D.A.) on Friday said it seeks to distribute smuggled yet “safe” frozen fish to at least 210,000 Filipino households in disaster-hit areas.

This came after the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) deemed the smuggled frozen mackerel, which were previously seized at the Port of Manila and Subic, as “safe for human consumption” after it showed negative results for histamine and other microbiological contaminants.

In a statement, Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the smuggled fish may help provide relief to Filipinos affected by the heavy rains and flooding due to the enhanced southwest monsoon and successive tropical cyclones.

“Today, the need is far more urgent. Millions have been displaced, and communities are still reeling from the devastation caused by widespread flooding,” he said, citing plans to recommend the distribution to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

Once transferred from the Bureau of Customs (BOC), the frozen mackerel may be turned over to the Office of the President (OP) or the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

A total of 210 metric tons (MT) of frozen mackerel, with 30 MT for each of the seven container vans, will be available for distribution.

“This may be a small gesture, but it could bring meaningful relief to countless struggling Filipinos,” Tiu Laurel said.

In December 2024, thousands of Filipino families received frozen fish as an “unexpected gift” from the President.

Other seized smuggled onions from the Port of Manila and Subic, meanwhile, will be subject to disposal. Although they tested negative for bacteria, heavy metals, or pesticides, they are showing signs of decay.