BULACAN, Philippines – Nagbabala ang Philippine National Police (PNP) sa publiko na maging maingat sa pagbili ng bigas matapos makumpiska ang humigit-kumulang 80,800 pekeng sako ng bigas sa Bocaue, Bulacan.
Inaresto ng PNP-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) noong Setyembre 21 ang isang Chinese national at Filipina niyang empleyado sa isang operasyon na isinagawa sa bisa ng search warrant. Tinatayang P800,000 ang halaga ng mga nakumpiskang sako.
Ayon kay PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., maaaring gamitin ang mga pekeng sako para palabasing premium o branded ang mas murang bigas at maloko ang mga mamimili tungkol sa kalidad at pinagmulan nito.
“This operation highlights not only a violation of intellectual property laws but also a potential threat to consumers. Rice is a staple food, and any scheme that misleads the public about the quality or source of rice must be addressed decisively,” ani Nartatez.
Sinabi ng PNP na kinopya ang mga sako mula sa lehitimong rice brands at posibleng lalagyan sana ng bigas bago ibenta sa merkado.
Inatasan ni Nartatez ang CIDG at iba pang police units na palakasin ang operasyon laban sa counterfeiting at tukuyin ang iba pang sangkot.
“I commend the CIDG and all personnel involved for the successful operation, and I have directed them and all concerned police units to intensify monitoring and enforcement operations against counterfeiting activities, strengthen coordination with legitimate trademark owners, and identify other individuals or groups involved in similar illegal operations to protect consumers and uphold the law,” ani Nartatez.
Hinimok din niya ang publiko na ireport ang kahina-hinalang rice sellers at repacking activities.
“We urge the public to remain vigilant and purchase products only from legitimate and reputable sources. The PNP will continue its efforts against counterfeiters and other unscrupulous individuals who deceive consumers and undermine public trust,” ani Nartatez. RNT/MDS
