Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. fired back at allegations of “ghost deliveries” of fertilizer raised by the Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura (Sinag), calling the claims unfounded and potentially damaging to the Department of Agriculture.
“We’ve already admitted before the Senate that there were indeed delays in fertilizer deliveries in Regions 1, 2, and 4B. That’s confirmed and documented,” Tiu Laurel said Friday, speaking to reporters after launching the P20 rice program for fisherfolk at the Navotas Fish Port Complex.
“But as far as ghost deliveries are concerned? At the moment, I consider that fake news—completely baseless,” he said firmly. “If Sinag knows something concrete, they should come forward and help us go after these supposed ghost suppliers.”
The secretary’s remarks come in response to Sinag’s insinuations of fraudulent transactions involving fertilizer distribution across parts of Luzon—claims that have stirred public concern and speculation.
Tiu Laurel clarified that the DA is already taking action against the three suppliers responsible for the delayed shipments. He said penalties—including fines or even blacklisting—are now on the table.
“The suppliers say recent typhoons delayed the arrival of fertilizers from China,” he noted. “But for me that’s not a valid excuse. We’re considering sanctions, including temporary blacklisting in the areas affected by the delays.”
He added that the suppliers have been given until September 15 to deliver but they will have to face higher penalties. Initial field reports suggest they may still beat that deadline, he added.
Asked whether the DA had considered terminating the contracts outright, Tiu Laurel said doing so would have only worsened the situation. “Canceling the contracts would delay the deliveries even more. And new bidding would likely come at a higher cost to the government. We bought those fertilizers at a lower price,” he explained.
For now, the DA is choosing accountability over disruption—but the secretary made it clear that continued delays won’t be tolerated.
“This isn’t just about late deliveries,” Tiu Laurel said. “It’s about trust. We are watching closely, and we will act.”
