PNP probes into supply chain of P15 M worth of seized relief goods being sold in black market
CIDG operatives inspect the relief items seized during a raid in warehouse in Tondo, Manila on Oct. 2, 2025. The relief goods with DSWD markings are allegedly being sold in black market. (photo: CIDG)
Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr., acting chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), has ordered a thorough investigation to identify all those responsible behind the attempt to sale P15.5 million worth of relief goods bearing the logo of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
The illegal activity was busted by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) in an operation in Manila in a two-day operation that started on Thursday, Oct. 2.
Nartatez expressed belief that the modus is not a handiwork of a single person who was arrested in the operation and now facing charges of violation of Section 19(e) (Selling of Relief Goods) of Republic Act 10121 (Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010), and Article 179 (Illegal Use of Insignia) of the Revised Penal Code.
“Our investigation is ongoing and we are pursuing leads that point to the possible involvement of other individuals. This is not the work of just one person and we are determined to uncover the entire network behind this illegal trade,” said Nartatez.
“Rest assured, those who conspired to profit from relief goods intended for our people will be held accountable,” he added.
During the operation in a warehouse in Tondo, CIDG operatives confiscated 6,000 boxes of DSWD Family Kits with “Not for Sale,” markings.
As part of the directive, the CIDG has been tasked to trace the entire supply chain of the seized relief goods: from their point of origin to their illegal resale in the black market.
Nartatez said the investigation seeks to identify not just small-time operators but also larger syndicates and possible insiders who may have facilitated the diversion of government property for personal gain.
He also underscored the PNP’s strong resolve to root out corruption and profiteering, particularly in programs meant to serve the most vulnerable sectors during times of calamity and crisis.
“The PNP is working closely with the DSWD to strengthen monitoring, auditing, and tracking systems for the distribution of relief goods. We will also enhance intelligence sharing and joint operations to quickly identify and stop any attempts to divert supplies,” he said.