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.

BFAR specifically 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.

The shipment, valued at P13 million to P20 million, could provide 1 kilo of fish for 50,000 families, potentially offering a buffer against rising food prices and supply volatility. This mackerel was part of six containers flagged by the DA’s Inspectorate and Enforcement Service and the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI).

Three other containers were found to hold 74 metric tons of red onions, while another contained yellow onions. The BPI is still conducting safety assessments on the onions, particularly checking for heavy metals, pesticides and bacteria.

Further testing is also underway at the Port of Subic for other intercepted shipments of frozen mackerel, onions and carrots.