Francis Pangilinan Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan joined officials of the Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Customs, and Bureau of Plant Industry on June 10 in inspecting 26 container vans containing an estimated P86 million worth of imported red onions at the Manila International Container Port (MICP).

Pangilinan raised concerns over the entry of a large volume of imported onions despite reports of adequate local supply and the difficulties faced by Filipino onion farmers in selling their harvests.

The senator noted that the shipment had reportedly been left unclaimed, causing the imported onions to spoil. He questioned why the shipment was abandoned and why the corresponding taxes and fees were allegedly left unpaid if the importation was legitimate.

Pangilinan also reiterated concerns raised during a recent public hearing regarding onion importation during periods of oversupply, saying such imports could further depress prices and negatively affect local farmers.

He stressed the need for better supply management, stricter enforcement of existing laws, and policies that prioritize the welfare of Filipino farmers while preventing the wastage of agricultural products.