₱86.7-M onions imported from China ordered destroyed over health risks

MANILA – The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Friday ordered the destruction of P86.7 million worth of onions imported from China that were left abandoned at the Manila International Container Port (MICP).

The bulk cargo contains about 650 metric tons of red onions—packed into 72,215 bags across 26 twenty-foot containers—matching the entire country’s average daily consumption.

The Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) recommended its destruction after laboratory tests confirmed the cargo poses health risks.

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In a statement, DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. stressed that public health considerations must be prioritized more than the financial value of the stranded cargo.

“The results of the laboratory analysis clearly show that the shipment poses serious health risks and is no longer fit for human consumption. We cannot allow these to enter the market,” Tiu Laurel said.

“The proper course of action is the immediate destruction of the entire consignment.”

According to the BPI, months of exposure and lack of proper handling led to widespread spoilage, including sprouting, rotting, fungal infestation, discoloration and strong foul odor.

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It said the current condition of the onions poses logistical and biosecurity concerns, as it can lead to contamination and pest infestation.

The shipment arrived last year, with part of the imports reaching the port between December 2025 and January 2026. It has an estimated PHP9.7 million in unpaid duties and taxes. (PNA)

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