THE BOOK, A cutting-edge dissection of R.A. 12022, focuses on the seemingly interminable scourge of agricultural smuggling, hoarding, profiteering, and cartel activity that has long undermined food security and stability of agricultural economies.
Part One introduces the salient features of the new law, R.A. 12022, as juxtaposed with the old one. Here, the authors mince no words in expounding and critiquing the intricate provisions, arguing that: “How to operationalize the ‘self-executory’ of the law – without the need for the issuance of implementing rules and regulations – is easier said than done. A reading of the law will tell us that some guidelines are necessary so that actual enforcement or implementation of some of its provisions can be carried out and pursued smoothly.” (Comments, p. 12)
Under Philippine law, a smuggler is not simply someone accused of violating customs rules… who, after a thorough judicial process, are proven to have engaged in illicit activities that undermine the nation’s economic and social well-being.
Part Two tackles on the anatomy of smuggling, identifying the “8 Tollgates of Agricultural Smuggling” and baring the “Inadequacies in Customs Clearance processes”.
Likely dissimilar to the pandering impression cast in congressional hearings, the book’s Afterword concludes with an apt definition of a Smuggler: “Under Philippine law, a smuggler is not simply someone accused of violating customs rules. They are individuals who, after a thorough judicial process, are proven to have engaged in illicit activities that undermine the nation’s economic and social well-being.” (Afterword, p. 108)
Verily, the authors – lawyers Ramon G. Cuyco and Marlon Fritz B. Broto, MNSA – draw from their veritable fields of expertise to “laymanize” R.A. 12022.
Down to earth, homespun, and uncondescending, the book is surprisingly wise.
