DA to build 5 first border facilities

THE Department of Agriculture (DA) on Wednesday plans to begin construction of five first border facilities this year, aimed at preventing smuggling and containing diseases.

“We just need to get the funds, once we get the funds, we can bid (the projects) out,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel, Jr. told reporters, noting delays due to failed bidding.

The agency is looking to put up facilities in Manila, Davao, Subic, Cebu, and General Santos.

He said that funding for the facilities could be sourced from the P20-billion allocation under the Animal Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (ANCEF), if budget amendments are not provided by Congress.

“(The Senate’s) suggestion is to make a way for the fund through (the bicameral conference), that is preferred. But if not, we might use part of the ANCEF so that we can start,” Mr. Tiu Laurel said.

He added that it would take 16 months for the agency to complete the construction of one first border facility

First border facilities or cold examination facilities (CEFA) aim to prevent entry of contaminated agricultural products and combat smuggling by providing testing, rendering, and incineration capabilities for imported animal meat, fish, and plants. — Adrian H. Halili