MANILA – The Department of Agriculture (DA) has ordered the disposal of over 500 metric tons of misdeclared and smuggled onions and carrots after laboratory tests found the vegetables were free from harmful contaminants but showed signs of severe spoilage.

The agricultural products, intercepted by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) at the Ports of Manila and Subic in coordination with the DA’s Inspectorate and Enforcement Office, were mostly yellow and red onions with a small volume of carrots. The vegetables, shipped from China, had an estimated market value of ₱66 million.

Despite testing negative for harmful substances such as E. coli, Salmonella, pesticide residues, and heavy metals, the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) recommended immediate disposal due to their physical condition.

“The onions and carrots showed signs of early sprouting, visible rotting, and foul odors indicating putrefaction,” said BPI Director Glenn Panganiban following two rounds of organoleptic tests.

DA Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said the agency’s decision prioritizes public health.

“Our priority is ensuring agricultural food commodities will promote public health and food safety. Imported goods, especially those meant to supplement local production, must meet safety standards and be fit for human consumption,” he said.

The seized cargo arrived misdeclared, raising red flags over agricultural smuggling. Of the 17 intercepted containers, 13 were found in Subic, with 12 loaded with red and yellow onions and one with carrots. Four more containers, all filled with onions, were seized at the Port of Manila.

In Subic, six containers falsely declared their contents as chicken lollipop, while others were labeled as smoked frankfurters or chicken sausage. Luxemar Wet and Dry Goods Trading was among those who misdeclared onion shipments as smoked frankfurters.

The importers involved—identified as Beaches Consumer Goods Trading, EPCB Consumer Goods Trading, and others—face sanctions for violating food safety and importation laws.

“These companies will be added to the growing list of importers blacklisted by the DA. Given the significant value of the cargo, some of these importers may be the first to face legal action under the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act,” Tiu Laurel warned.

Separately, tests are ongoing on two more container vans falsely declared as chicken poppers but found to be carrying Peking duck and chicken breast. The shipment, consigned to 1024 Consumer Goods Trading, is under inspection by the Bureau of Animal Industry.

The DA said the operation reflects its zero-tolerance policy against agricultural smuggling and aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s push to uphold food safety and protect the livelihood of Filipino farmers and fisherfolk.