The Department of Agriculture (DA) has suspended fertilizer distribution from five suppliers following complaints about product quality.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the department is investigating the suppliers, all of whom hold government contracts, to determine whether their products meet official standards.
The review will be conducted in coordination with the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority.
“We agreed to pay the price they bid, yet they delivered substandard products. That is highway robbery, and we will not allow it. They have no shame,” Tiu Laurel declared.
Under the order, all fertilizer stocks from the flagged suppliers are frozen until cleared by the Office of the Secretary.
DA personnel have also been directed to report pending deliveries, ongoing transactions, and relevant documentation to support a comprehensive assessment.
While the department did not specify the exact nature of the complaints, officials emphasized that the move reflects a tougher stance on supplier accountability and product quality.
The suspension aims to address long-standing concerns among farmers who rely on government-supported fertilizer programs to manage rising production costs.