Manila, Philippines — The Department of Agriculture (DA) has given warehouses, cold storage facilities, and other establishments storing agricultural and fishery products until December 31 of this year to register with the Registry System for Agri Storage (RSAS).
According to the DA, the measure is important in monitoring the country’s supply chain, as well as in keeping watch over smugglers, hoarders, and other individuals or entities manipulating the movement and prices of agricultural products.
The move is also in line with the mandate of Republic Act No. 12022, or the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, which seeks to protect local farmers, fisherfolk, consumers, and legitimate businesses.
The Agri Department clarified that RSAS registration is separate from certification and inspection.
The DA is currently working on a schedule for nationwide inspections by 2027.
The department expects the measure to provide a faster way of identifying areas where smuggling, profiteering, and hoarding may be taking place.