January 19, 2024 | Davao Del Norte – The FPA Davao, in coordination with the local government of Sto. Tomas and the PNP, has shut down operations of an unlicensed fertilizer manufacturer in Davao Del Norte on January 4, 2024, after finding out their illegal ‘spinning palanggana’ operations in the production of fertilizers.

The process entailed manually mixing different fertilizer grades in a “palanggana” (basin) by hand to produce a seemingly new fertilizer product.

FPA Davao explained it as an unconventional manufacturing process that is below standard because of the improper handling of volatile chemicals; uncalculated mixing of raw materials; and the absence of quality control procedures.

Prior to halting operations, an inspection was earlier conducted on December 20, 2023 after the illegal activity was anonymously reported at said regional office. Six (6) ‘spinning palanggana’ machines were found on site while four (4) employees are on standby.

According to a source, the plant was established in August 2023, and their production run on November 7-21, 2023.

The activity violates PD 1144 and FPA Memorandum No. 23 Series of 2022, otherwise known as the “Suspension of existing product registrations and license of handlers using the “spinning palanggana” method.”

Notice of Violations (NOVs) were issued to the manufacturer and a Stop Use, Move, and Sale (SUMS) Order was issued for the illegal product.

The FPA consistency reminds the public to be vigilant and report such illegal activities to authorities. ###

  Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (FPA) Online ISSN: 2815-1674
  Published by the FPA Information and Communications Team