Government authorities have seized approximately ₱4 million worth of unregistered pesticides and fertilizers in a joint operation conducted by the Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) and the Philippine National Police’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group–National Capital Region (PNP-CIDG-NCR).
The enforcement action stemmed from a formal complaint received by the FPA, implicating WLEX Company in the distribution of illegal agricultural inputs. The products were recovered from a commercial establishment being used for unauthorized storage and distribution.
Seized items included 641 one-liter bottles of Axonic pesticide, 748 one-liter bottles of Sapphire pesticide, 220 one-liter bottles of Chlonil pesticide, four sacks of Welzeb fertilizer, and multiple variants of the biostimulant Nutrinaro SC—5,590 sachets (10g), 345 sachets (50g), and 90 sachets (5g). Authorities also recovered 220 pieces and 800 packs of Norinano Plus (10g), along with three containers of unidentified chemical substances.
The FPA confirmed that Axonic, Sapphire, Chlonil, and Welzeb are not registered with the agency and are considered illegal. WLEX is also not licensed to handle pesticide products. Although the company once held a valid certification as a fertilizer importer and distributor, its license was only effective until December 7, 2024. Only one of its products, Norinano Plus Soil Conditioner, remains registered with the FPA until February 4, 2027.
Investigators found that the products had been repackaged locally and falsely advertised as imported, in an apparent effort to mislead buyers.
Agriculture secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting farmers and legitimate businesses from illicit trade practices. He stated, “This action clearly demonstrates the resolve of government agencies to carry out the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to protect our farmers as well as local businesses against these unfair and illicit trade practices.”
All confiscated items have been turned over to the Department of Agriculture for safekeeping and legal documentation. Investigations are ongoing, and appropriate charges will be filed under existing laws. The FPA urges farmers and agricultural suppliers to purchase only from licensed dealers and to verify products through official FPA channels. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and adherence to regulatory standards to ensure the safety and integrity of the agricultural sector.