Saturday, October 06, 2007 Customs steps up campaign v. smuggled meat, agri products By Grace L. Plata
THE City Government of Davao Friday expressed support to moves of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) to inspect all refrigerated container vans entering the port to prevent possible entry of smuggled meat, poultry and agricultural products.
Councilor Peter Laviña, chair of the City Council committee on trade, commerce and industry, said the 100 percent inspection is necessary not only to prevent smuggling but also to protect local consumers from health hazards and local producers from unfair competition.
He said the city should be vigilant to protect its residents from smuggled foodstuff, which may have been banned in other countries.
"The rigid inspection should prevent the city from becoming a dumping ground of products, which may be contaminated or banned in other countries," Laviña said Friday.
He said efforts must also be made to keep the city free from foot and mouth disease (FMD) and bird flu virus.
Mindanao, however, is free from both FMD and avian flu.
In Davao City, hog and poultry raisers have compiled a handbook on good agricultural practices and this was made the guideline for their operations.
