Senator Urges Swift Action on Agricultural smuggling, Warns of Suspects Fleeing Justice
Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan has voiced strong concern over the lack of prosecutions following recent large-scale agricultural smuggling busts, questioning why charges haven’t been filed despite readily available evidence. Speaking at a Senate hearing on Monday, Pangilinan emphasized the urgent need to utilize the newly enacted Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act to protect Filipino farmers adn ensure food security.Pangilinan highlighted the recent operations in Subic, Paco, and Talisay City, Cebu, as crucial opportunities to demonstrate the effectiveness of the law, which designates smuggling of agricultural goods exceeding P10 million as a non-bailable offense. He pointed out that authorities possess comprehensive information – including seized goods,assessed values,and the identities of brokers,importers,and warehouse owners – yet no cases have been pursued.
“we have everything we need to move forward with Anti-Economic Sabotage charges. The question is,why the delay?” Pangilinan challenged officials from the Bureau of Customs,Department of Justice,Philippine Coast guard,and Department of Agriculture.
The Senator expressed fears that key individuals involved in these smuggling networks are actively evading prosecution, aware of the non-bailable nature of the charges. He warned that continued inaction would allow suspects to escape the country, rendering any future investigations futile.”If we don’t act decisively and quickly, they will know they are under scrutiny and disappear,” he stated.
Pangilinan offered the full support of the Senate to relevant agencies, pledging to assist in securing necessary resources and interventions to bolster anti-smuggling efforts. He reiterated the Senate’s commitment to empowering these agencies to effectively enforce the anti-smuggling law and protect the livelihoods of Filipino farmers and the interests of consumers. “We want to see results,” he concluded, “and we stand ready to help you achieve them.”