The Department of Agriculture (DA) is seeking the release of two container vans of frozen mackerel previously seized at the Port of Manila for alleged smuggling.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said he would formally request the Bureau of Customs (BOC) to turn over the 50 metric tons of mackerel, following laboratory results that confirmed the fish are safe for human consumption.

The DA’s Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) conducted microbiological tests and found the fish to be compliant with both Philippine and international safety standards. BFAR confirmed that tested samples contained acceptable levels of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, and aerobic plate counts.

“Hence, the samples, as received, are safe for consumption based on the parameters tested,” the agency said.

Valued at P13 million to P20 million, the shipment could yield 1 kilo of fish for 50,000 families – a potential buffer to soaring food prices and supply volatility. The mackerel shipment was among six containers flagged by the DA’s Inspectorate and Enforcement Service (IES) and the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI). Three other containers were found carrying 74 metric tons of red onions, while another held yellow onions.

The BPI is still conducting safety assessments on the onions, particularly for the presence of heavy metals, pesticides, and bacteria.

At the Port of Subic, further testing is underway for other shipments of frozen mackerel, onions, and carrots similarly intercepted by authorities.

“We remain committed to safeguarding our food supply, protecting our farmers and fisherfolk, and ensuring public health,” Secretary Tiu Laurel said. 

“Rather than let safe food go to waste, we will put it on Filipino tables – just as this administration has done before.”