Pangilinan Urges DOJ to Prosecute Wealthy Agri-Smugglers, Dispel 'Untouchable' Notion

MANILA, Philippines — Senator Francis Pangilinan on Thursday challenged the Department of Justice (DOJ) and its attached agency, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), to go after wealthy agricultural smugglers and prove that they are not “untouchable.” During the Senate hearing on the DOJ’s proposed 2027 budget, Pangilinan questioned the agencies over the dismissal of cases against alleged agricultural smugglers. The senator expressed concern that the perception of these wealthy individuals being able to evade prosecution could undermine public trust in the justice system. Pangilinan’s call highlights the ongoing issue of agricultural smuggling in the Philippines, which can significantly impact the livelihoods of local farmers and contribute to food price volatility. The challenge put forth by the senator underscores the expectation that the Philippine justice system should operate impartially, regardless of economic status or social standing. It remains to be seen how the DOJ and NBI will respond to this directive and whether it will lead to more robust actions against high-profile agricultural smuggling operations.