Ex-DA chief criticizes decision to import onions

Former agriculture secretary Leonardo Montemayor on Friday criticized the Department of Agriculture's decision to import 3,000 metric tons of red onions and 1,000 metric tons of white onions, calling it ill-timed amid the ongoing harvest.

- By BELLA CARIASO

"The DA's decision is ill-timed. Onion harvests have begun in major producing municipalities like Bayambang in Pangasinan, San Jose in Occidental Mindoro and Bongabon and Laur in Nueva Ecija," Montemayor said.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. defended the move, saying it is necessary to ensure enough supply and prevent a spike in the retail prices amid the projected 7,000 metric tons deficit of onions this month.

Montemayor, however, warned that the importation could negatively impact local farmers.

"Importation will depress farmgate prices and will aggravate the current plight of onion producers, who have been facing more expensive farm inputs and infestation by harabas or army worms," he said.