“More convictions are needed to deter agricultural smuggling.”
This was Abra lone district Rep. JB Bernos’ reaction to the filing of criminal complaints involving shipments declared as “chicken lollipops” but instead contained onions and carrots, in violation of Republic Act (RA) 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
“We hail the filing of charges against those involved in the smuggling of agricultural products. But I hope that these cases will result in convictions to serve as warning to smugglers,” Bernos said.
The lawmaker emphasized the need for strengthening the capability of enforcers in the procedural aspects of law enforcement to ensure that perpetrators “do not go free on technicalities.”
“Kailangang maipakita natin na seryoso tayo sa pag-uusig at pagpapanagot sa mga lumalabag sa batas, lalo na iyong mga krimen na may matinding epekto sa ekonomiya at sa kabuhayan ng mga magsasaka,” he added.
The Bureau of Customs recently filed six criminal complaints against the owner and representatives of an importer, a licensed customs broker, BOC officials and personnel, and other individuals allegedly involved in six shipments declared as “chicken lollipops”.
However, physical examination of the shipments, which arrived in June 2025, yielded a total of 15,029 sacks of fresh white onions and 2,164 boxes of fresh carrots.
The lawmaker emphasized the need for strengthening the capability of enforcers in the procedural aspects of law enforcement to ensure that perpetrators “do not go free on technicalities.”
“It is important that our law enforcers have a good grasp of procedure to ensure that every step is done according to law so that we can build airtight cases against smugglers,” Bernos said.
“Siguruhin natin na walang bahid ang pagkalap natin ng mga ebidensya upang maisagad natin ang parusa ng mga smuggler at mabigyang hustisya ang mga magsasakang ninanakawan nila ng kabuhayan,” the solon added.
