Marcos warns those involved in agri smuggling

President-elect Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. warned the government will go after individuals involved in agricultural smuggling, according to GMA’s “24 Oras” report on Wednesday.

"Hahabulin natin lahat 'yan," Marcos, who will also sit as Agriculture Secretary, said.

Marcos issued the warning after the Senate committee of the whole report showed a list individuals, including Customs and Agriculture officials, who were identified as alleged protectors and smugglers of agricultural products.

Outgoing Agriculture Secretary William Dar also condemned all forms of smuggling.

“As secretary of Agriculture, I condemn in the strongest terms smuggling and all other forms of illegal entry of all agricultural fishery and meat products into the country,” Dar said.

Dar said the department is investigating some officials and employees of the bureau who were among those identified by the Senate as alleged protectors and smugglers of agricultural products.

Navotas City Mayor Toby Tiangco has denied he was involved in agri-smuggling after a certain "Toby Tiangco" surfaced in the Senate list.

Tiangco said the Special Order No. 1077 issued by the Department of Agriculture is being used to cover up the smuggling of fish in the country.

The Special Order No. 1077 that revoked Special Order No. 1202 which prohibits the importation of galunggong, mackerel, moonfish, and squid for processing purposes.

In response, Dar said “illegal is illegal.”

GMA News has sought comment from Tiangco on Dar’s statement.

Meanwhile, Bureau of Customs Deputy Commissioner Vener Baquiran also denied the allegations.

“I categorically deny the allegations against me that I am involved in agricultural smuggling. These imputations are malicious and false,” Baquiran said.

Senate President Vicente Sotto III said the Senate committee of the whole report showing a list of individuals, including several Customs and Agriculture officials allegedly involved in agricultural smuggling, has been submitted to the Office of the Ombudsman.

Several personalities in the list, including Customs Commissioner Rey Guerrero, have denied involvement in the allegations.—Richa Noriega/LDF, GMA News