The Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA) has initiated legal proceedings against JRA and Pearl Enterprises Inc. for allegedly importing fresh yellow onions valued at approximately PHP 2.37 million without the necessary permits. The Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) filed a formal complaint with the Manila City Prosecutor’s Office, asserting that the company imported 25 metric tons of fresh yellow onions from China, which arrived at the Manila South Harbor in July 2024.
During the period of importation, the government had suspended the issuance of sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances (SPSICs) for fresh yellow onions from January 1 to August 19, 2024, due to sufficient domestic supply meeting local demand. Importers are mandated to obtain an SPSIC to ensure that agricultural commodities entering the country are safe for human consumption and to prevent the spread of pests or diseases.
The DA’s action underscores the government’s commitment to enforcing agricultural regulations and safeguarding the interests of local farmers and consumers. Ensuring compliance with import protocols is crucial to maintaining the integrity of the country’s agricultural sector and protecting public health.
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