The Sandiganbayan has dismissed the graft case against former Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala over the alleged monopolization of garlic importation that caused price spikes in 2014.
The Fifth Division granted Alcala’s demurrer to evidence, citing insufficient proof presented by the Ombudsman to establish his participation in the alleged crime.
The case, filed in 2019, involved claims that Alcala and officials of the Bureau of Plant Industry conspired with the Vegetable Importers, Exporters, Vendors Association of the Philippines (VIEVA) to control garlic imports and manipulate market prices.
The prosecution alleged that Alcala’s appointment of VIEVA chairperson Lilia Cruz to the National Garlic Action Team enabled the group to secure the majority of import permits, driving up garlic prices.
The court ruled that the evidence failed to show Alcala acted in conspiracy with the other accused, leading to the dismissal of the charges.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 10, 2026
SANDIGANBAYAN DISMISSES GARLIC CARTEL GRAFT CASE AGAINST FORMER DA CHIEF
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