Smuggled veggies seized in Navotas positive for pesticides, heavy metals, BPI tests show

The Department of Agriculture has reported that smuggled vegetables seized from a warehouse in Navotas City in mid-August tested positive for pesticide residues, heavy metals, and microbiological contaminants.

In a report to Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr., Bureau of Plant Industry Director Gerald Glenn Panganiban said analyses conducted on onions, tomatoes, and carrots from the makeshift cold storage facility showed the presence of organophosphates, organochlorines, and pyrethroids—pesticides harmful to humans—as well as cadmium and lead, heavy metals that pose significant health risks. He added that the tests also identified microbiological contaminants like E. coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella spp.

“The food safety analysis confirms that the allegedly smuggled agricultural crops contain pesticide residues, heavy metals, and microbiological contaminants that do not comply with our food safety regulations,” Panganiban reported.

A composite team from the DA-Inspectorate and Enforcement Office, the Bureau of Customs, and other authorities seized over 300 tons of white onions, carrots, tomatoes, and other food products that were imported without the necessary sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances from BPI.

Sec. Tiu Laurel said that the contaminated vegetables will be disposed of, as they cannot be sold or donated due to BPI’s test results.

“We cannot risk the health of Filipino consumers. The DA legal team will determine legal actions that can be taken against these unscrupulous traders who not only evaded tariffs but also endangered consumer health,” he stressed. ###