The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) has released advisories for passengers planning to bring plants while traveling through ports during the upcoming Holy Week.
For plant enthusiasts, the agency reminded travelers to secure a shipping permit before boarding.
A Clearance for Domestic Transport (CDT) from the National Plant Quarantine Services Division (NPQSD) of the Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) is required to ensure that plants are free from regulated non-quarantine pests.
Certain plants, particularly those under the genus Musa such as bananas and abaca, face restrictions due to potential plant diseases.
A Plant Quarantine Officer (PQO) will inspect the plants and may implement necessary phytosanitary measures before allowing them to be transported.
“Sa ganitong paraan, ligtas at maayos na makakasama ninyo ang inyong mga alagang halaman sa barko at pantalan,” the PPA said.