Operatives from the Philippine National Police–Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) seized an estimated P1.8 million worth of unregistered and prohibited cooking oil in Pinamalayan, Oriental Mindoro.

The confiscated products lacked the required registration from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and a valid License to Operate, clear violations of national food safety regulations, police said.

The suspect, identified by the alias “Mike,” 35, now faces charges for violating Republic Act 9711, the Food and Drug Administration Act of 2009.

The said law mandates that all food, drug and cosmetic products must have FDA authorization before they can be manufactured, distributed or sold to ensure public health and safety.

The PNP reminded the public to purchase only FDA-registered food products from licensed establishments.

Consumers can verify product and establishment registration through the FDA’s official website.

The joint operation was conducted by the CIDG Oriental Mindoro Provincial Field Unit, in coordination with the FDA Regional Office 4B and the Pinamalayan Municipal Police Station.