In a decisive move to uphold agricultural integrity and consumer safety, the Department of Agriculture (DA) on Wednesday announced the blacklisting of three food importers involved in illegal trade practices.
The DA’s Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) sanctioned LVM Grains Enterprises, Kysse Lishh Consumer Goods Trading, and Golden Rays Consumer Goods Trading for failing to secure the necessary sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances (SPICs).
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel, Jr. emphasized the DA’s commitment to combating illegal activities that jeopardize government revenue and public health. “We will not turn a blind eye to these importers’ illegal practices that undermine our responsibilities to farmers and consumers,” he stated.
The blacklisted companies were found importing agricultural products—including milled rice, cashew nuts, coffee, onions, and oranges—without the requisite documentation, posing a potential risk to food safety. Additionally, the DA revealed that import licenses for five other firms are under suspension pending further investigation due to misdeclarations and anti-competitive practices.
Gerald Glenn Panganiban, director at BPI, said the identities of the suspended firms will remain confidential as legal proceedings are underway. “Until their cases are resolved, they cannot transact with BPI,” he clarified.
The crackdown aligns with recent legislative measures signed by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., that classified smuggling, hoarding, and cartel operations involving agricultural products as economic sabotage. The new law imposes harsher penalties, including increased fines and extended jail sentences for offenders, particularly when the value of goods exceeds P10 million.
The DA’s actions signal a robust effort to protect the agricultural sector and reinforce fair trading practices, ensuring a healthier market for both producers and consumers in the Philippines.
