On October 3, 2024, the Bureau of Customs – Port of Manila (BOC-POM) inspected and seized a shipment of 25,000 kilograms of fresh onions valued approximately at PhP2 million. The said shipment arrived from China.

Upon verification, it was confirmed that the shipment lacked the required Sanitary and Phytosanitary Import Clearance (SPSIC) from the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI), leading to the issuance of a Warrant of Seizure and Detention against it.

The inspection was led by BOC-POM District Collector Rizalino Jose C. Torralba, alongside officials from the Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI), including Director Glenn Panganiban, Assistant Director Ruel Gesmundo, and Plant Quarantine Chief Joan May Tolentino.

District Collector Torralba emphasized the importance of the inspection in safeguarding public health and the agricultural industry. “This recent seizure reflects our firm resolve in ensuring that products that are noncompliant with laws, rules and regulations do not infiltrate our markets,” he stated.

Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio commended the BOC-POM’s efforts to combat agricultural smuggling, stating, “By rigorously enforcing import regulations, we not only shield our citizens from unsafe agricultural products but also enhance public trust and ensure the integrity of our nation’s food supply.”

##