In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s commitment to achieving food security and “zero hunger,” the spearheaded the donation of 21 containers of frozen mackerel, valued at PhP178.5 million, which were seized by the Bureau of Customs (BOC). The donation was formally turned over to the Department of Agriculture (DA) on December 14, 2024, during the President’s inspection at the Manila International Container Port (MICP). This initiative highlights President Marcos’ dedication to ensuring the availability of essential food supplies for Filipino communities, while reinforcing the government’s commitment to transparency and lawful processes.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., who has consistently championed initiatives to combat food insecurity and support agricultural development, underscored the importance of utilizing forfeited goods for the benefit of the people. His administration’s commitment to addressing the country’s food needs has been further realized through this coordinated effort between the BOC and the DA.

The shipment of frozen mackerel arrived at the MICP on September 28 and 29, 2024, without the necessary Sanitary and Phytosanitary Import Clearance (SPSIC) from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR). As a result, the goods were deemed abandoned and forfeited in favor of the government.

To ensure the safety and quality of the fish, the BOC and DA worked closely with BFAR, which conducted thorough laboratory tests confirming the mackerel met all standards for human consumption.

The donation was formalized through a Deed of Donation and Acceptance, signed by BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio and DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu-Laurel Jr., with the support of Secretary of Finance Ralph G. Recto. Commissioner Rubio affirmed the BOC’s full support for President Marcos’ vision of enhancing food security and promoting public welfare.

During the event, the BOC and the Department of Finance witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between the DA and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The President together with DSWD, DA, and Department of the Interior and Local Government will distribute the donation to marginalized barangays across the 17 Local Government Units (LGUs) in the National Capital Region, as well as one LGU each in Region 3 and Region 4-A. The beneficiaries will also include individuals in city jails, public hospitals, and various care facilities. An estimated 150,000 families are expected to benefit from the donation, which will begin distribution on the same day, ensuring immediate support to communities in need.

Under President Marcos’ leadership, the BOC remains steadfast in protecting the nation’s borders while actively supporting initiatives that benefit the Filipino people.