DA wants seized mackerel shipments released to DSWD for relief efforts in Philippines

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. has requested the Bureau of Customs (BOC) to release 580 metric tons of frozen mackerel that arrived at the Manila Port early last month for government aid relief efforts following the recent typhoons. In a statement released Sunday, the Department of Agriculture (DA) said Tiu Laurel requested the release of the seized mackerel — found to be fit for human consumption by the National Fisheries Laboratory — to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). “Consequently, the fish products are deemed fit for immediate release and can be utilized to address food security needs, especially in relief operations,” the secretary said. “This initiative would support the DSWD and the Department of Agriculture’s ongoing efforts to provide essential aid to victims of the recent typhoon,” he added. The Philippines has been hit by a succession of cyclones: Nika (international name: Toraji), Ofel (international name: Usagi), and Pepito ...