Cebu used in rice smuggling

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu is one of the major drop-off points for illegally imported rice from Manila, this according to National Food Authority Administrator Angelito Banayo.

During his visit to Cebu yesterday, Banayo said they have started checking rice warehouses in Cebu following reports of illegally imported rice.

“This is a difficult process but it’s the only way to fight the continuous illegal importation,” he said.       

Together with a team from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Central Visayas, Banayo and his men visited a warehouse in Barangay Tabok, Mandaue City, yesterday morning for an inspection.

The CIDG earlier signed a memorandum of agreement with NFA to assist them in their nationwide inspection of warehouses to curb or eradicate illegal rice importation.  

The owner of the warehouse in Barangay Tabok was able to present authentic documentation of their rice stock but rice samples from the warehouse were still sent for laboratory analysis to confirm if they matched the information stated on the owner’s documents. 

The NFA will also check records of millers in Isabela and Nueva Ecija where most of the rice comes from.  

Banayo said although it is really the job of the Bureau of Customs to carry out warehouse inspections they still have to do their own share in ensuring that rice imports in the country are properly documented.

He said most illegally imported rice come from Manila where it is repacked and distributed to various drop-off points in the country.

The NFA is currently reducing imports in order to promote local produce and the local rice market, ensuring food security. (FREEMAN)