By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — Government authorities have shut down a meat processing facility in Bacolor, Pampanga after discovering an estimated 40 tons of imported meat products worth P4.5 million allegedly stored under unsanitary conditions and found to be expired or nearing expiration.
The operation was conducted by the Philippine National Police Regional Office 3’s Regional Special Operations Group, working alongside inspectors from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS).
Police Brig. Gen. Jess Mendez, PRO-3 director, said inspectors found imported meat products originating from Brazil, India, and other Asian countries. Many of the products reportedly emitted a strong foul odor upon inspection.
Authorities also documented numerous sanitation violations inside the facility, including rusty processing machinery, inadequate cold-storage conditions, and signs of rodent infestation.
Investigators believe improper temperature management may have accelerated the deterioration of the meat products.
Officials warned that the facility posed a serious danger to public health, particularly as processed and ready-to-cook meat products continue to gain popularity among consumers.
Adding to concerns, authorities discovered that the facility’s FDA permit had reportedly expired more than two decades ago, in 2003.
Health regulators cautioned that spoiled or contaminated meat products could expose consumers to harmful bacteria and foodborne illnesses.
Two individuals, including the owner of the establishment, were arrested during the raid.
Authorities said criminal charges are being prepared for alleged violations of the Food and Drug Administration Act and the Consumer Act of the Philippines.
Further investigation is underway to determine the extent of the operation and whether additional violations were committed.
The confiscated products were classified as “hot meat” and will remain under government custody pending a court order authorizing their disposal.
Law enforcement and food safety officials urged consumers to purchase meat products only from licensed and accredited suppliers to ensure product quality and safety.
The raid underscores the government’s continuing campaign against unsafe food products and illegal food-processing operations that threaten consumer welfare.
ia/xf
