President Ferdinand Marcos on Thursday signed the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, a landmark measure aimed at dismantling smuggling operations and protecting the country’s agricultural sector.
During a ceremonial signing at Malacañang, President Marcos addressed lawmakers, government officials, and industry stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding farmers and fisherfolk from exploitation by criminal syndicates manipulating agricultural markets.
“We come together not merely to protect but to uplift the very hands that cultivate our fields and that fish our waters, as we embark on the pivotal journey of enacting the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act,” the President said.
The new law classifies agricultural economic sabotage—such as smuggling, hoarding, profiteering, and cartel operations—as a non-bailable offense, punishable by life imprisonment and fines up to five times the value of the goods involved.
The President made it clear that the law targets not only the masterminds but also their accomplices, including financiers, brokers, and even transporters.
“We will confront and dismantle the powerful forces that have long exploited our system for their own gain, ensuring that justice prevails and the dignity of our agricultural sector is upheld,” Mr. Marcos said.
The President cited the significant economic damage caused by these crimes, revealing that the country lost over P3 billion to agricultural smuggling in 2023 alone.
According to the President, in the first nine months of 2024, authorities seized more than P230 million worth of smuggled agricultural products.
He also underscored the national security risks posed by these illegal activities.
“These crimes threaten not only our economy but our national security as well. They jeopardize the livelihood of hardworking Filipino farmers and fisherfolk and threaten the food sustainability of our communities,” he said.
The law establishes the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Council, which will be chaired by the President, alongside key Cabinet members.
It also creates an Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Enforcement Group, tasked with dismantling smuggling operations and apprehending offenders. A special team of prosecutors will expedite cases related to agricultural sabotage to ensure swift justice.
President Marcos called on the public to remain vigilant, urging them to report wrongdoing and hold accountable those undermining the nation’s food security.
“The food security of our country, the stability of prices, and the dignity of our farmers depend on us all,” he said.
