DA-FPA orders alleged illegal fertilizer producer to explain violations
MANILA – The Department of Agriculture’s Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (DA-FPA) has issued a show cause order against a fertilizer producer in Mindanao suspected of operating without proper authorization.
In a statement on Friday, FPA Executive Director Glenn Estrada said the action forms part of the government’s ongoing efforts to safeguard the fertilizer industry and protect Filipino farmers from potentially unsafe products.
“Inspections and enforcement will continue to prevent unsafe products from reaching farmers,” Estrada said. “This Show Cause Order sends a clear message that regulatory compliance is not optional, and violators will be held accountable.”
The order directs DQB Green Agricultural Products Trading, located in Makilala, North Cotabato, to explain why it should not face penalties for alleged violations of Presidential Decree No. 1144, the law that established the FPA, and Memorandum Circular No. 23, Series of 2022. The circular suspended the registration and licensing of handlers using the so-called “Spinning Palanggana” method for fertilizer production.
During a surprise inspection on Feb. 20, FPA personnel reportedly discovered that the facility was producing and repackaging fertilizer products without a valid license to operate.
Authorities subsequently halted the distribution and sale of 1,352 bags of fertilizer found inside the establishment by issuing a Stop Use, Move, and Sale order.
Among the products seized was Takada 14-14-14 fertilizer, a formulation registered under Valap Inc., whose license to operate as a manufacturer and national distributor expired in January.
Investigators also found that DQB does not possess a valid license to operate for the production site.
The agency further noted that the facility was using the prohibited “spinning palanggana” method in its operations. The technique has been suspended due to repeated laboratory test failures and fertilizer products not meeting required nutrient specifications.
NPO News Team | Philippines News Agency – PR
