The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA), in coordination with the PNP–Criminal Investigation and Detection Group–National Capital Region, has seized unregistered fertilizer and pesticide products worth about P4 million.
“This action demonstrates the government’s resolve to enforce President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to protect farmers and local businesses from illicit trade,” said Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.
The raid followed an FPA probe identifying WLEX Company as a distributor of illegal agricultural inputs.
Recovered from a commercial storage facility were 641 one-liter bottles of Axonic, 748 of Sapphire, 220 of Chlonil, four sacks of Welzeb, and various quantities of the bio-stimulant Nutrinaro SC—5,590 sachets (10g), 345 sachets (50g), and 90 sachets (5g). Authorities also confiscated 220 pieces and 800 packs of Norinano Plus (10g) and three containers of unidentified chemicals.
The FPA confirmed that Axonic, Sapphire, Chlonil, and Welzeb are unregistered, and that WLEX is not licensed to handle pesticide products.
While the company previously held a fertilizer importer-distributor license, it expired on Dec. 7, 2024. Only one product, Norinano Plus Soil Conditioner, is registered with the FPA, valid until Feb. 4, 2027.
Investigators found that some products were repackaged locally and falsely labeled as imported.
“We are serious about halting the spread of adulterated and illegal farm inputs that endanger farmers and undermine legitimate businesses,” said FPA executive director Glenn DC. Estrada.
All seized items have been turned over to the Department of Agriculture and legal proceedings are underway.
The FPA advised farmers and agri-suppliers to purchase only from licensed dealers and verify products via official FPA Alert Lines.
