MANILA -- Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr has suspended the issuance of import clearances for round scad (galunggong), mackerel, and bonito.

Laurel said galunggong, bonito, and mackerel imported under the Fisheries Administrative Order 195 were supposed to be only for canning and institutional buyers.

However, the Department of Agriculture said it had received reports that these imported fish are being diverted and sold in wet markets.

The DA said that under Memorandum 14 issued April 1, only the importation of mackerel for canning purposes will be cleared, and that the imported fish should be labeled to indicate they are for canning and not for sale in wet markets.

Galunggong is a staple for many Filipinos due to its affordability compared to other types of fish, and meats. 

Locally-sourced galunggong sell for an average of P288.81 per kilo according to the DA's latest price monitoring report. Imported galunggong meanwhile sell for P180 per kilo.

Last year, the DA had to import galunggong and other fish to cover the shortage caused by the closed fishing season. 

• Galunggong expected to drop to P130-P150/kilo in March

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