THE Department of Agriculture (DA) has suspended the issuance of sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances for several species of mackerel and torpedo scad amid reports of import permit misuse.The directive by Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. was made via Memorandum Order (MO) 38, which followed MO 37 that also suspended the importation of mackerel and torpedo scad.“The suspension follows allegations that some importers misdeclared or diverted shipments of fishery products, undermining the DA’s objectives of stabilizing supply and keeping fish prices affordable, while also disrupting legitimate trade channels,” the department said.The directive covers imports of horse mackerel (including Atlantic and Japanese jack mackerel), Indian mackerel, wahoo, and torpedo or hardtail scad. These are locally known as alumahan (mackerel) and galunggong (scad) and are considered staples in Filipino households due to their affordability and wide use in the local cuisine.Tiu Laurel said there was a need for transparency and fairness in the importation of the commodities to stabilize the local market, maintain affordable prices and protect the livelihood of local fisherfolk and traders.The move also aims to prevent illicit trade from undermining legitimate channels and distorting market dynamics, the DA said.Tiu Laurel said the order was not an import ban but a temporary measure to guarantee compliance with regulations and alignment with the national interest.The DA said the suspension would be lifted after a comprehensive investigation and review of current importation protocols.It added that the order was aligned with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s commitment to food safety, market fairness and sustainable livelihoods in the fishery and aquaculture sectors.
DA suspends clearances for mackerel, scad imports
