Navotas raid yields P100-M unsafe frozen foods

Police seized an estimated P100 million worth of allegedly unsafe frozen meat, fish and agricultural products during a raid on several cold storage warehouses here, authorities reported Friday.

The operation, led by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), targeted the facilities on 11 December, following reports of Food Safety Act violations. Investigators recovered 1,071 boxes of assorted frozen goods that were allegedly imported without the necessary permits and clearances.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) said the enforcement action was timed to prevent the questionable products from reaching consumers during the peak holiday season.

“This accomplishment underscores the PNP’s unwavering commitment to protecting the health and safety of the public,” said acting PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.

“As we approach Christmas, celebrations are happening everywhere. We remind everyone to ensure that the food we serve our families is safe and properly sourced,” he added.

The joint operation included the Bureau of Customs, the National Meat Inspection Service, and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources. Authorities stated the seized goods violated Republic Act 10611, also known as the Food Safety Act of 2013, which mandates a “farm-to-fork” safety system.

Nartatez said the ongoing investigation aims to send a “strong message” that violations of food safety laws will not be tolerated.

“By stopping the distribution of these questionable food products, we are preventing possible foodborne diseases and protecting Filipino consumers,” he added.