The Department of Agriculture (DA) has welcomed the filing of charges against four individuals allegedly involved in the illegal sale of unregistered fertilizers and pesticides valued at P3.5 million in Las Piñas City.

The Las Piñas City Prosecutor’s Office approved the charges following a successful entrapment operation that led to the arrest of suspects identified as James Malinao Halasan, Julievie Galleon Dumalagan, Prescillano Baloma and Raina Mosong Canalita.

Police said that the four were caught posing as representatives of WLEX Co. Philippines Inc. and were found storing large volumes of unregistered agricultural chemicals in a city warehouse.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. lauded the development, calling it a significant step in protecting the country’s farmers and the integrity of the agriculture sector.

“We commend the swift action of the Las Piñas City Prosecutor,” Laurel said. “These illegal activities not only endanger farmers and compromise agricultural productivity, but also undermine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision of a food-secure Philippines.”

An inquest resolution found prima facie evidence to indict the suspects for violating key provisions of Presidential Decree No. 1144, specifically Sections 8(a) and 9, which prohibit the unauthorized distribution and sale of regulated agricultural inputs.