Rep. Brian Poe has filed the “Revised Anti-Agricultural Smuggling and Hoarding Act” to strengthen the Philippines’ fight against agricultural economic sabotage, following President Marcos Jr.’s call to protect farmers and stabilize food prices.
The bill classifies hoarding and large-scale smuggling of agricultural goods as heinous, non-bailable crimes punishable by life imprisonment, heavy fines, and asset forfeiture.
It also imposes harsher penalties on public officials involved, including perpetual disqualification from office and loss of benefits.
To improve enforcement, the measure creates a specialized task force and requires warehouses to register, report inventories, and undergo inspections, with penalties for non-compliance.
Additionally, the bill includes a whistleblower incentive program offering rewards up to ₱20 million to encourage public cooperation in cracking down on these offenses.
Source: PhilNews24 | August 1, 2025
