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Smuggled From China: P2-M Worth Of Red Onions Seized In Misamis Oriental
Photo credit: Departmemt of Agriculture
TAGOLOAN, Misamis Oriental | June 24, 2025 — Authorities have intercepted a massive shipment of smuggled red onions at the Mindanao International Container Terminal—totaling 25 metric tons and valued at around ₱2 million.
The Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), under the Department of Agriculture (DA), with the assistance of the Bureau of Customs (BOC), flagged the illegal shipment which originated from China.
According to Agriculture Secretary Francisco "Kiko" Tiu Laurel Jr., the DA did not issue any sanitary or phytosanitary import permits for this batch of red onions, making the entry of the goods illegal.
“The government is committed to filing legal action under the new Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act,” Laurel said, adding that this law imposes heavier penalties for agricultural smuggling—including steep fines and long-term imprisonment.
Officials warn that smuggling like this not only threatens local farmers but also undermines food safety and national agricultural stability.
The seized onions are currently being held as evidence as authorities gear up for prosecution.
The Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), under the Department of Agriculture (DA), with the assistance of the Bureau of Customs (BOC), flagged the illegal shipment which originated from China.
According to Agriculture Secretary Francisco "Kiko" Tiu Laurel Jr., the DA did not issue any sanitary or phytosanitary import permits for this batch of red onions, making the entry of the goods illegal.
“The government is committed to filing legal action under the new Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act,” Laurel said, adding that this law imposes heavier penalties for agricultural smuggling—including steep fines and long-term imprisonment.
Officials warn that smuggling like this not only threatens local farmers but also undermines food safety and national agricultural stability.
The seized onions are currently being held as evidence as authorities gear up for prosecution.
Jun 24, 2025
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