Time to toughen up against agricultural economic sabotage

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has certified as urgent Senate Bill No. 2432, which aims to redefine and impose stricter penalties for crimes related to agricultural economic sabotage. This move, coming at a time when the nation grapples with rising prices and agricultural product shortages, is a timely effort not only aimed at protecting the farmers and producers, but also the consumers, who sacrifice day-to-day comfort just to put food on the table.

In his letter to Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, President Marcos emphasized the urgency of enacting SB 2432. The bill’s objectives are clear: “To promote the productivity of the agriculture sector, protect farmers and fisherfolk from unscrupulous traders and importers; and ensure reasonable and affordable prices of agricultural and fishery products for consumers.”

Agricultural sabotage, characterized by smuggling, hoarding, profiteering, and cartel activities, has contributed to the current challenges the country faces. It has driven up prices and created shortages, negatively impacting consumers and the agriculture sector alike.

The bill, which aims to replace Republic Act 10845 (the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act of 2016), introduces stringent measures against these nefarious activities. Notably, it proposes life imprisonment and substantial fines — up to three times the value of the agricultural and fishery products involved in the crime — for those found guilty of economic sabotage. This may seem harsh for the perpetrators, but the burden they impose on millions of ordinary Filipinos is harsher.

Under SB 2432, agricultural economic sabotage is established when the value of each affected agricultural and fishery product is at least P1 million, based on the Daily Price Index. This is calculated at the time the crime occurs, ensuring that the law addresses significant offenses.

The bill also outlines the creation of an Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Council, to be led by the President or a designated representative. This council will be responsible for the effective enforcement of the proposed law, including the swift investigation and prosecution of violators and the freezing of their assets.

Crucially, SB 2432 holds government officials or employees accountable for their involvement in such crimes. It’s time that they face severe penalties, including perpetual disqualification from public office, loss of voting rights, and forfeiture of employment benefits. Additionally, corporations involved in these illicit activities will see criminal liability extend to all participating officers, who will face perpetual disqualification from engaging in related businesses.

The government will also have the authority to confiscate agricultural and fishery products linked to these prohibited acts, as well as properties used in the commission of economic sabotage. This comprehensive approach aims to deter such activities and safeguard the interests of farmers, consumers, and the broader economy.

The President’s swift action to push for SB 2432 is proof of the administration’s commitment to address pressing issues that affect the nation, especially in the agriculture sector.
It’s often said that updating or improving laws is a welcome move, but at the end of the day, the effective implementation is equally — and sometimes, more — crucial. The government must ensure that the provisions of SB 2432 are enforced rigorously and consistently to achieve its intended objectives. And whoever violates the provisions must face the full force of the law. Otherwise, agricultural economic saboteurs will just spit on the face of Filipinos and laugh all the way to the bank.

Credit belongs to: www.mb.com.ph