The Department of Agriculture (DA) has temporarily suspended the issuance of Sanitary and Phytosanitary Import Clearance (SPSIC ) for the importation of certain mackerel and torpedo scad species, following reports of import permit misuse that could destabilize the local fish market.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. signed Memorandum Order No. 38, in relation to MO 37, which orders the immediate halt of SPSIC issuance for imports of horse mackerel—including Atlantic and Japanese jack mackerel—Indian mackerel, wahoo, and both torpedo or hardtail scad.
In a statement, the DA said the suspension follows allegations that some importers misdeclared or diverted shipments of fishery products, undermining the DA’s objectives of stabilizing supply and keeping fish prices affordable, while also disrupting legitimate trade channels.
Known locally as alumahan (mackerel) and galunggong (scad), these fish varieties are household staples for many Filipino families due to their affordability and versatility in local cuisine.
Secretary Tiu Laurel said the importation of these essential commodities must be transparent and fair—not only to safeguard consumer access, but also to protect the livelihoods of local fishers and traders from the adverse effects of illicit trade.
The DA action reinforces the commitment of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to upholding food safety, market fairness, and sustainable livelihoods in the fishery and aquaculture sectors. It also aims to insulate domestic producers from disruptive activities that distort market dynamics.
Secretary Tiu Laurel clarified that the order is not an import ban, but a temporary measure to ensure full compliance with regulations and alignment with national interest.
The DA order will be lifted based on the result of a thorough investigation and review of current importation protocols, with the goal of ensuring integrity and accountability across the fish supply chain.
