Former Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala
MANILA, Philippines — Former Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, 20 garlic traders and other agriculture officials are facing graft charges over alleged garlic cartel scam.
Based on a statement released by the Office of the Ombudsman, the Department of Agriculture (DA) issued almost 9,000 import permits from 2010 to 2014, of which 5,000 were cornered by the Vendors Association of the Philippines, Inc. (VIEVA) chaired by Lilia Cruz.
In 2013, Alcala assigned Cruz as the chairperson of the National Garlic Action Team. The group was tasked to create policies in the production and supply of garlic.
Cruz also acted as the representative of the importers, facilitating the applications of garlic importation.
Investigators of the ombudsman have discovered that Alcala approved the release of importer permits amid suspension of the release order.
The resolution of the Ombudsman disclosed that VIEVA controlled the supply of garlic which resulted in price surges that ranged from P165-P170 per kilo in 2010-2013 to P260-400 per kilo in January to July 2014.
The Ombudsman also urged the dismissal of former Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) Director Clarito Barron, division chiefs Merle Palacpac and Luben Marasigan over grave misconduct.
The officials will not be allowed to hold any government positions and will not receive any retirement benefits. — Rey Pelayo | UNTV News & Rescue
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