Public warned on fake fertilizers

THE FERTILIZER and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Cordillera Administrative Region are warning farmers in the region against peddlers promoting fake fertilizers and pesticides.

“This has been a big problem that is why we are advising our farmers as much as possible, we are already asking them not to patronize and buy from direct sellers. Farmers should buy accredited stores and cooperatives,” said regional officer Reynaldo Segismundo.

Segismundo said even legit agriculture store may be victimized by these unscrupulous business men and advised farmers to transact business only

to established stores and cooperatives which issues BIR receipt.

Despite the lack of personnel, Segismundo said they are coordinating with other line agencies, local government units, provincial agricultural office, and other organizations in curbing and hopefully arrest illegal peddlers of fertilizers.

Just recently, FPA together with the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group and other line agencies conducted a buy – bust operation confiscating P275,000 worth of illegal fertilizer at Km. 4 La Trinidad.

FPA also advise farmers to follow the practice of personal protective clothing whenever they are in contact with the use of fertilizers and pesticides to avoid exposure to poison.