DA reviewing documents on coffee seedlings
MANILA, Philippines — There is an ongoing review of documents as millions of coffee seedlings were reported missing, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA).
“The review will determine if a full-blown investigation or further analysis will be ordered by (Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.),” Agriculture Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa said at a press conference yesterday.
Millions of coffee seedlings were missing, according to Philippine Chamber of Agriculture and Food Inc. president Danilo Fausto.
Based on information given by Philippine Coffee Board members, the DA has allocated a budget for the distribution of millions of coffee seedlings nationwide through the Bureau of Plant Industry, Fausto said.
“The secretary and the entire DA welcome issues (raised against the department). We need to study thoroughly so that those who are innocent will be cleared and those who are involved will be penalized,” De Mesa added.
Coffee seedlings cost P100 each, Fausto noted.
Between 80 and 85 percent of the country’s coffee consumption is being imported, he added.
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