NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
DOJ Secretary Warns Onion Smugglers Of Economic Sabotage
Screengrab from DOJ Presscon
Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Jesus Crispin "Boying" Remulla, addressed the media during a press conference regarding the issue of onion smuggling in the country. Remulla shed light on previous investigations conducted by the DOJ and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) while emphasizing the government's commitment to combating economic sabotage.
Remulla revealed that prior to his tenure, the DOJ and the NBI had already conducted studies and investigations on onion smuggling. These initiatives were undertaken when the Office for Competition was still a larger division within the department. The findings of these studies, along with the minutes of congressional hearings, are currently being reviewed to build a solid case against individuals involved in creating a cartel within the country.
"We're looking at all the minutes now of the congressional hearings. And of course, we will look at our own notes to be able to put together a good case of economic sabotage against those who insist on creating a cartel within the country, which is definitely against the law," Remulla said.
To address the issue effectively, Remulla announced that he would assign Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Richard Fadulion, together with Undersecretary Jesse Hermogenes Andres, to develop a comprehensive plan. The DOJ aims to gather sufficient evidence to prosecute those involved in the onion smuggling network.
Remulla expressed confidence in the government's understanding of the onion smuggling process, saying "We have an idea how it happens. Don't worry about it. Ang network kasi dito, from the time that the onions are ordered to the production fields, mayroon talagang malaking galamay itong grupong ito. Kaya kinokontrol talaga nalang supply."
He further mentioned that cold storage facilities, warehouses, and middlemen play a significant role in this network.
Remulla also revealed that a small number of names consistently emerge when analyzing the overall picture. This knowledge gives the authorities a good starting point to apprehend those involved in the act of onion smuggling.
"We just have to catch them in the act," Remulla affirmed, emphasizing the DOJ's determination to bring the culprits to justice.
Remulla revealed that prior to his tenure, the DOJ and the NBI had already conducted studies and investigations on onion smuggling. These initiatives were undertaken when the Office for Competition was still a larger division within the department. The findings of these studies, along with the minutes of congressional hearings, are currently being reviewed to build a solid case against individuals involved in creating a cartel within the country.
"We're looking at all the minutes now of the congressional hearings. And of course, we will look at our own notes to be able to put together a good case of economic sabotage against those who insist on creating a cartel within the country, which is definitely against the law," Remulla said.
To address the issue effectively, Remulla announced that he would assign Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Richard Fadulion, together with Undersecretary Jesse Hermogenes Andres, to develop a comprehensive plan. The DOJ aims to gather sufficient evidence to prosecute those involved in the onion smuggling network.
Remulla expressed confidence in the government's understanding of the onion smuggling process, saying "We have an idea how it happens. Don't worry about it. Ang network kasi dito, from the time that the onions are ordered to the production fields, mayroon talagang malaking galamay itong grupong ito. Kaya kinokontrol talaga nalang supply."
He further mentioned that cold storage facilities, warehouses, and middlemen play a significant role in this network.
Remulla also revealed that a small number of names consistently emerge when analyzing the overall picture. This knowledge gives the authorities a good starting point to apprehend those involved in the act of onion smuggling.
"We just have to catch them in the act," Remulla affirmed, emphasizing the DOJ's determination to bring the culprits to justice.
Jul 6, 2023
