DAVAO CITY —- To maximize the utilization of seized products, the Department of Agriculture (DA) has proposed a practical solution to aid typhoon victims by requesting the Bureau of Customs (BOC) to release 580 metric tons of frozen mackerel, seized at the Manila International Container Port last month, for distribution as emergency relief.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized that the confiscated fish, valued at approximately PHP 178.5 million, has been certified fit for human consumption by the National Fisheries Laboratory Division of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR). He requested its immediate release to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to bolster ongoing relief efforts.
“This initiative supports both the DSWD and the DA’s mission to address food security concerns, especially in the wake of the recent typhoons that have caused significant displacement and destruction,” Tiu Laurel stated in a Sunday press release.
The Philippines has endured a string of destructive cyclones in recent weeks — Nika (international name: Toraji), Ofel (international name: Usagi), and Pepito (international name: Min-Yi). These storms have displaced over 167,000 individuals and claimed at least 13 lives, leaving many in dire need of basic necessities, including food.
The DA’s initiative aligns with efforts to provide immediate and essential aid to affected communities, leveraging available resources to alleviate the growing food security challenges faced by displaced families.
The mackerel shipments, confiscated from 21 container vans in early October due to the absence of sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances, were thoroughly examined by BFAR’s National Fisheries Laboratory Division. Laboratory tests confirmed the fish showed no signs of spoilage or contamination, making it suitable for human consumption.
“This stock of frozen mackerel, now confirmed safe, can be rapidly deployed to support ongoing relief operations,” Tiu Laurel said.
Supporting Vulnerable Communities
The release of the seized mackerel for humanitarian use underscores the government’s commitment to maximizing available resources for disaster response. With thousands of families displaced and rebuilding from the aftermath of the typhoons, the initiative represents an innovative and timely strategy to address immediate food needs while reducing waste.
The BOC has yet to confirm its decision on the DA’s request. However, this collaboration could set a precedent for repurposing confiscated goods for public welfare, particularly in times of crisis.
DA Proposes Seized Mackerel for Typhoon Relief to Support Food Security
