P3.5-M NFA rice seized in Bataan; 8 nabbed

BALANGA CITY, Bataan, Philippines – Eight persons were arrested here for allegedly repacking P3.6 million worth of National Food Authority (NFA) rice into commercial rice sacks on Wednesday. 

Chief investigator Police Officer 3 Carlo Zaragosa said the suspects were repacking rice in three trailer trucks parked along the national road in Barangay Mabini extension at around 11 a.m.

Superintendent Rizalino Andaya, Dinalupihan police chief, identified the suspects as drivers Henry Cortes, 35; Artemio Guzman, 26; and Raymundo Mones, 22; truck helpers Romnick Artana, Jomar Alboperi and Jerick Corpuz, all residents of Cauayan, Isabela; vulcanizing operator Angelito Bacani and sari-sari store owner Sta. Maria Vivas, of  Barangay Mabini Extension in Dinalupihan.

The suspects were charged with violating the Price Tag Law and qualified theft.

The confiscated rice reportedly came from the NFA warehouse at the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.