PAMPANGA— The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) arrested two Chinese nationals and seized an estimated ₱1.2 million worth of unregistered laundry fabric softener products during a search of a warehouse in San Simon, Pampanga, on October 12.

The operation was conducted from around 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. in Barangay San Isidro under a search warrant for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 3720, as amended by Republic Act No. 9711, or the Food and Drug Administration Act of 2009.

The CIDG National Capital Region Field Unit carried out the operation in coordination with the Philippine Air Force, the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Military Intelligence Unit, and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

According to a report submitted to CIDG Director Police Major General Robert AA Morico II, the two male suspects were identified as an incorporator and a supervisor of a chemical manufacturing corporation.

Authorities said the suspects were allegedly found in possession and control of, and storing and selling, laundry fabric softener products that were not registered with the FDA. The establishment also reportedly lacked the required FDA License to Operate.

Republic Act No. 9711 strengthens the FDA’s regulatory powers over establishments and health products. It also prohibits the manufacture, importation, sale, distribution and other dealings involving regulated products without the required authorization.

The CIDG warned consumers against purchasing unregistered household products, noting that these may not have undergone the required safety and quality checks or ingredient disclosures.

The agency urged the public to verify product registration before purchasing consumer goods and to report suspected illegal trading activities to authorities.

The CIDG credited its National Capital Region Field Unit, led by Regional Chief Police Colonel John K. Guiagui, for the operation and said it would continue efforts to enforce the law and curb illegal trading.