Authorities confiscated more than P1 million worth of unregistered Korean luncheon meat products during a joint operation by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Region 3 at a warehouse in Barangay Cutcut on October 22.

The operation, conducted around 3 p.m. by the CIDG Angeles City Field Unit and FDA Region 3, resulted in the seizure of assorted brands of Korean canned luncheon meat valued at P1,040,040.

Authorities said the products were not registered with the FDA and had not undergone the required evaluation for compliance with food quality and safety standards, in violation of Republic Act No. 9711, or the Food and Drug Administration Act of 2009.

A 17-year-old minor found selling and trading the products was documented and turned over to the City Social Welfare and Development Office for appropriate intervention.

Meanwhile, a criminal complaint was filed against the warehouse owner, who remains at large.

CIDG officials warned that the manufacture, importation, sale, distribution, and transfer of food products without the required FDA registration and authorization are prohibited by law.

They stressed that unregistered food products may pose risks to consumers as their quality, handling, and safety have not been verified by the FDA.

CIDG leadership commended Regional Field Unit 3 Chief PCOL Grant A. Gollod and Angeles City Field Unit Chief PMAJ Harold A. Landicho for the successful operation.

The CIDG reiterated its commitment to protecting consumers and preventing potentially unsafe food products from reaching the market.

Authorities also urged the public to check product labels and verify FDA registration through the agency’s official verification portal before purchasing or consuming processed food products.