The Department of Agriculture (DA) called on the Bureau of Customs (BOC) to release 580 metric tons (MT) of seized frozen mackerel to the government’s social welfare arm after tests confirmed that these are safe for human consumption. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. noted that the shipments, which were earlier confiscated due to the absence of an import permit, should be transferred to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to aid relief operations and boost food security efforts. “Consequently, the fish products are deemed fit for immediate release and can be utilized to address food security needs, especially in relief operations,” he said.

Pelonia, A. (2024, November 25). DSWD may use seized frozen mackerel for relief operations-DA. Business Mirror, p. A9.