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NEWS REPORTS 

POLICE REPORTS 

17 days na, fresh pa rin?: La Trinidad LGU warns  against suspected smuggled broccoli sold at markets

Grace Soriano
14 minutes ago
2 min read

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet – The La Trinidad municipal government has warned consumers about suspected illegally imported broccoli reportedly being sold in markets in La Trinidad and nearby Baguio City, after samples were compared with locally grown produce.


In a September 21 Facebook post, the Mayor’s Office of La Trinidad cited concerns raised by the Cordillera Broccoli Traders and Farmers Association (CBTFA) over the suspected imported broccoli.


According to the group, the broccoli had uniform sizes, neatly cut bottoms or “flower cuts,” and no stems, which they said differ from locally grown produce.


Augusta Balanoy of the League of Associations at the La Trinidad Vegetable Trading Post said a sample of the suspected imported broccoli arrived in La Trinidad on September 4 and still appeared fresh when checked on September 21.


The sample was compared with locally grown broccoli harvested on September 20 and delivered to the trading post early on September 21.


The farmers and traders also raised concerns that the suspected imported broccoli may have been treated with preservatives or other chemicals to extend its shelf life. However, this has yet to be confirmed.


Samples will undergo laboratory testing to determine their contents.


Mayor Roderick Awingan said the municipality would strengthen measures against the entry of illegally imported broccoli and other highland vegetables into the La Trinidad Vegetable Trading Post and public market.


Meanwhile, DA-CAR, the La Trinidad LGU and farmer-traders met on September 21 to discuss measures to support local highland vegetable farmers.


DA-CAR Regional Executive Director Atty. Jennilyn Dawayan urged consumers to support locally produced vegetables, saying, “We must buy local, go local, and support the locally produced vegetables in our area.”


The La Trinidad LGU and DA-CAR are also coordinating with concerned local governments, including Tuba and Baguio City, regarding the reported entry of imported vegetables.


Until laboratory results are released, claims that the suspected imported broccoli contains preservatives or chemicals remain unverified.


The public is advised to remain vigilant and report suspected illegally imported vegetables to the proper authorities.

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