Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. proposes the distribution of 210 metric tons of smuggled frozen mackerel recently seized at the ports of Manila and Subic once approved by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Laboratory tests by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) confirmed the fish are safe for human consumption, having passed checks for histamine and microbiological contaminants. Tiu Laurel said he will ask the Bureau of Customs (BOC) to turn over the shipments to the Department of Agriculture (DA) for distribution through relief agencies like the Department of Social Welfare and Development or the Office of the President.
The confiscated shipment—seven container vans in total—could provide one kilo of fish to 210,000 households. The DA is also inspecting more containers suspected of carrying fish.
While the mackerel was deemed fit for consumption, accompanying shipments of onions will be destroyed due to visible decay, despite testing negative for harmful substances.
Tiu Laurel emphasized the urgency of the aid, noting ongoing relief efforts for communities affected by recent widespread flooding.
