Manila, June 10 -- The Bureau of Customs inspected 26 containers of abandoned fresh red onions from China as part of efforts to prevent irregular agricultural importations at the Manila International Container Port.

The shipments covered 72,215 bags with a gross weight of 650,000 kilograms. Based on valuation, the shipments have an estimated market value of PHP86,684,000 and total equivalent duties and taxes amounting to over PHP9 million.

The Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Plant Industry confirmed that permits had been issued for the shipment, but due to the failure of the consignee to process and release the shipment, the integrity and quality of the goods may deteriorate and be unfit for human consumption. It is recommended t...