The Department of Agriculture (DA) is pushing for the release of two container vans of frozen mackerel, previously seized at the Port of Manila on suspicion of smuggling, after laboratory tests confirmed the fish are safe for human consumption. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. announced he would formally request the Bureau of Customs (BoC) to turn over the 50 metric tons of mackerel. The DA’s Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) conducted microbiological tests, finding the fish compliant with both Philippine and international safety standards.

Mago, J. (2025, July 22). DA mulls stabilizing mackerel supply. Daily Tribune, p. A8.