Senator Francis Pangilinan has raised alarm over reports that cold storage facilities are packed with imported goods, shutting out local farmers and risking bigger post-harvest losses and food security issues.
As head of the agriculture panel, Pangilinan said operators and traders will be summoned to explain complaints on limited access, steep fees, and alleged bias favoring big importers, leaving small farmers with no storage options.
Cold storage is key to keeping produce fresh and prices stable, he stressed, noting onions can last up to nine months if stored properly.
“Mukhang pinipuwera, sinasadyang hindi bigyan ng cold storage yung ating mga magsisibuyas… kaya bubusisiin natin yan,” he said, warning firms.
“Wag niyo kaming paikutin… sasampahan namin kayo ng kaso.”
Pangilinan also flagged continued onion imports during harvest season, saying this setup forces farmers to sell cheap to traders.IMT
