Guimaras Plant Quarantine Security System

The Order was issued in accordance with Proclamation No. 314 and by virtue of the powers vested by law in the Secretary of Agriculture.

The measures are intended to prevent the introduction of mango pulp weevil and mango seed weevil.

The introduction and/or bringing into the Island of Guimaras of mango fruits and seeds is prohibited.

Guimaras is declared a “Special Quarantine Zone,” described as an area free from mango pulp weevil and mango seed weevil.

The PQSS is under the direct control and supervision of the Plant Quarantine Service in the Bureau of Plant Industry.

The PQSS shall be operated by Plant Quarantine Officers and other plant quarantine personnel duly assigned thereat.

To prevent the introduction or entry into Guimaras of mango fruits and seeds produced outside the island, and to cause destruction or return of intercepted mangoes.

The Plant Quarantine Officers shall cause the destruction or return of the mangoes to the place of origin, at the expense of the owner/s.

Yes. The PQSS functions to prevent entry of mango fruits and seeds produced outside Guimaras into the island.

The Bureau of Plant Industry, in coordination with the Regional Director of Region VI, shall assign competent Plant Quarantine Officers in and at points of entry in Guimaras.

All funds allocated by virtue of Proclamation 314 for maintenance of the Plant Quarantine Service in Guimaras are placed under the control and management of the Bureau of Plant Industry.

The Director of Plant Industry and the DA Regional Director for Region No. VI must cooperate to ensure smooth, efficient, and effective attainment of the Order’s objectives.

It takes effect immediately, implying that compliance is required right away upon issuance.

It revokes/supersedes orders inconsistent with it.

Because maintaining pest-free status is necessary for mangoes grown in Guimaras (e.g., Manila Super Sweet variety) to be acceptable in export markets, particularly the U.S.

Their extensive survey established that Guimaras was free from the specified mango pests, which supported the quarantine approach envisioned by Proclamation No. 314.

It supports assigning the Bureau direct supervision and control of quarantine activities and the funds allocated, as it is described as possessing the relevant technical expertise.

The text authorizes Plant Quarantine Officers to intercept mango fruits/seeds and order destruction or return at the owner’s expense—an enforcement/administrative remedy mechanism.