The Department of Agriculture (DA) has suspended the issuance of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Import Clearance (SPSIC) for the importation of certain mackerel and torpedo scad species to allow the agency to probe alleged misuse of import permits, as it could destabilize the local fish market. Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said he issued Memorandum Order No. 37 and 38 to investigate allegations that some importers misdeclared or diverted shipments of fishery products and to immediately halt SPSIC issuance for imports of horse mackerel — including Atlantic and Japanese jack mackerel — Indian mackerel, wahoo, and both torpedo or hardtail scad.

DA suspends issuance of clearance for mackerel, scad importation. (2025, July 18). Panay News, p. 14.