(The Manila Times) THE Bureau of Customs at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) intercepted beetles at the Central Mail Exchange Center (CMEC) in Pasay City.
Customs officials on Monday said the package which came from Hong Kong contained 14 pieces of live beetles and a larva concealed in plastic tubes hidden in packs of biscuits, noodles, and chocolates.
Port of NAIA District Collector Carmelita Talusan said the parcel arrived on July 24.
It was seized because it lacked clearance or permit from the Bureau of Plant Industry.
Beetles are plant-eating insects commonly known as garden pests that damage crops. Its larvae consumes plant roots, causing wilting, yellowing and stunted growth.
The bureau said that under Section Presidential Decree 1433, the importation of pests that are capable of causing injury to agricultural crops is restricted… Read More
