Key government agencies mandated to implement the recently enacted Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act are now gearing up for an intensified enforcement of the law.
On Tuesday, members of the AES Council and the AES Enforcement Group, alongside relevant government agencies, gathered for the first time in a forum organized by the Stratbase Institute.
The AES Act or Republic Act No. 12022 classifies agricultural smuggling, hoarding, profiteering and engaging in cartel as acts of economic sabotage. Violators risk life imprisonment and fines up to five times the value of the goods involved under the measure that was signed into law in September.
During the forum, the AES Council and the Enforcement Group pushed for greater inter-agency collaboration and stronger enforcement measures to ensure the effectiveness of said law.
Department of Agriculture’s Director for Inspectorate and Enforcement Felicisimo Madayag Jr. highlighted their commitment to action as crucial in boosting the efficiency of the law’s mandate.
“Our success will not be measured solely by laws passed or penalties imposed. It will be measured by the trust we rebuild in our agricultural sector, the livelihood we safeguard, and the food security we ensure to every Filipino family,” said Madayag.
Justice Assistant Secretary Randolph Pascasio shared how the past decade saw only five percent of the 192 agricultural smuggling cases prosecuted due to bureaucratic inefficiencies among concerned offices.
He said the new law’s expanded scope and mandated penalties can better prevent the entry of smuggled agricultural products, ensure payment of correct duties and taxes, and exact liability from direct perpetrators and enablers alike.
“Your DOJ, in active collaboration with key agencies and the society-at-large, remains steadfast in its commitment to enforce the rule of law and protect the livelihoods of our farmers and fisherfolk, stabilize the food process, and secure food security for all Filipinos,” said Pascasio.
Economic expert and Stratbase Group Chief Operating Officer RP Manhit further highlighted the importance of proper enforcement to ensure compliance, building public trust and confidence in the system.
“The law is just one component of the solution; enforcement is critical. By working together, we can ensure that this legislation achieves its full potential—empowering the Filipino people and safeguarding the integrity of our agricultural supply chain,” Manhit said.