Gov’t seizes P4M worth of fertilizers, pesticides
The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) and the Philippine National Police’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group recently seized about P4 million worth of unregistered pesticide and fertilizer products.
This operation stemmed from a complaint received by the FPA, claiming that WLEX Company was illegally distributing agricultural inputs.
“Investigators found that the products had been repackaged locally and falsely advertised as imported, in an apparent effort to mislead buyers,” the Department of Agriculture (DA) said in statement over the weekend.
These include 641 one-liter bottles of Axonic pesticide, 748 one-liter bottles of Sapphire pesticide, 220 one-liter bottles of Chlonil pesticide, four sacks of Welzeb, and multiple variants of the bio-stimulant Nutrinaro SC-5,590 sachets (10g), 345 sachets (50g) and 90 sachets (5g).
Local authorities also confiscated 220 pieces and 800 packs of Norinano Plus (10g), along with three containers of unidentified chemical substances.
The FPA said WLEX is not licensed to handle pesticide products. It previously held a valid certification as a fertilizer importer and distributor, although its license was valid until Dec. 7, 2024.
Likewise, Axonic, Sapphire, Chlonil and Welzeb brands are not registered with the agency.
One of the products carried by the FPA, Norinano Plus Soil Conditioner, is still registered with the FPA until Feb. 4, 2027.
Securing farms
Illegally procured agricultural inputs were turned over to the DA for safekeeping and legal documentation while the investigation is ongoing. Appropriate charges will be filed under existing laws.
“We are serious in our campaign against the proliferation of these adulterated and unregistered products that hurt not only legitimate businesses but our farmers and overall farm productivity,” FPA Executive Director Glenn Estrada said.
“This action clearly demonstrates the resolve of government agencies to carry out the directive of President Marcos to protect our farmers as well as local businesses against these unfair and illicit trade practices,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said.
Presidential Decree No. 1144, which created the FPA, said no pesticide should be imported, exported, manufactured, formulated, repacked, distributed, delivered; sold or offered for sale, transported, delivered for transportation or used unless registered with the agency or covered by a provisional permit.
