DA CONFISCATES SACKS OF SMUGGLED WHITE ONIONS

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) on Thursday said it confiscated at least 105 sacks of smuggled white onions from three public markets in Metro Manila.

DA-Wide Field Inspectorate and Assistant Agriculture Secretary James Layug said the operation was conducted in coordination with the Bureau of Plant Industry, Philippine Coast Guard, and Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group.

“We will continue to work with other agencies of the government to protect the livelihood of our farmers and fishers,” Layug said.

He added that the confiscated onions, amounting to 744 kilos and valued at P225,000, were seized at Divisoria Market in Manila, Mutya ng Pasig Public Market in Pasig City and Balintawak Market in Quezon City.

He said the confiscated contrabands will be disposed of using proper condemnation procedures.

“The DA will strengthen efforts to carry out its mandate in ensuring that the country’s food supply is safe while promoting fair trade,” Layug added.

Assistant Agriculture Secretary Kristine Evangelista earlier said that the DA has not issued any importation permit for white onion.

The DA price watch on Thursday said the retail prices of red onions ranged from P250 to P300 per kilo.