Manila: Senator Francis Pangilinan announced his plans to collaborate with multiple government agencies to initiate non-bailable charges against individuals involved in the smuggling of agricultural products. Pangilinan, who chairs the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Food, and Agrarian Reform, emphasized the urgency of this effort following the discovery of misdeclared frozen chicken breasts and fish balls valued at PHP12.96 million at the Manila International Container Port.

According to Philippines News Agency, Pangilinan is set to meet with the Department of Justice (DOJ), the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), and the Office of the Ombudsman. This initiative follows a significant inspection that underscored the need for stringent action against smuggling activities. The senator highlighted the collaborative efforts with the Bureau of Customs (BOC), which has been pivotal in providing crucial documents and information since the commencement of the Senate hearings on agricultural smuggling.

Pangilinan expressed the seriousness of the situation by reiterating the commitment of both the Senate and the BOC in tackling the issue. He stressed that significant operators, along with complicit government officials, will face legal consequences for their involvement in smuggling activities.

Previously, Pangilinan held six individuals, including brokers and a deputy collector at the Port of Subic, in contempt for their non-cooperation in the Senate's ongoing inquiry. He also voiced concerns about potential health risks associated with smuggled chicken products, particularly those imported from China, which may be deemed unfit for consumption.

Pangilinan questioned the integrity of the import process, suggesting that some products might be "salvaged value" items intended for disposal in China but brought to the Philippines due to their low cost. He emphasized the need to investigate these practices, as they pose significant health risks.

The senator's committee is currently probing into extensive agricultural smuggling operations that potentially involve Chinese companies, Filipino front owners, and officials from key government agencies.