Massive Seizure of Smuggled Vegetables in Navotas Raid by DA and BOC

NAVOTAS – In a significant operation, over 300 tons of smuggled vegetables were confiscated by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) in Navotas, following a raid on illegal cold storage facilities.

According to Philippines News Agency, the raid, which took place on Thursday night, uncovered substantial quantities of illegally imported produce across two separate facilities. The findings included 132.75 tons of white onions valued at PHP 21.2 million and 89.89 tons of imported carrots worth approximately PHP 13.48 million. Additional seizures included 360 kilos of tomatoes, 10 kilos of enoki mushrooms, and a 40-footer container van loaded with 92.25 tons of imported white onions.

Secretary Laurel emphasized the detrimental impact of such smuggling activities on local farmers and the local economy. He reiterated the government’s commitment, under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive, to rigorously enforce laws against smuggling and protect the agricultural sector from unfair trade practices.

The operation also highlighted the crucial role of local governance in combating illegal activities, with Laurel praising the support from Navotas Mayor John Rey Tiangco and Congressman Toby Tiangco for their cooperation with local enforcement authorities, which was vital in the successful execution of the raid.

In response to the raid, Laurel announced that the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) would suspend all new import permits for onions and carrots, aligning with reports of abundant local harvests of these vegetables. He also called on the public to aid in safeguarding local agriculture by reporting any suspected smuggling activities, emphasizing the importance of community vigilance in protecting both the livelihoods of local farmers and the health of consumers.