May 4, 2012

Philippine government agencies join forces on pork smuggling issue

A senior government official said Thursday (May 3) that several Philippine government agencies have joined forces to address the smuggling of pork into the country.

Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda issued the statement during a regular press briefing following reports that several hog raisers will go on a week-long nationwide "pork holiday" to protest against rampant smuggling of pork.

Lacierda said the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Finance, the Bureau of Customs and other concerned government agencies have started implementing measures to eradicate the reported technical smuggling.

Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala will be meeting with hog and poultry raisers to address their concerns. Alcala ordered the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) to check the markets for smuggled meat.

Aside from smuggling, the hog raisers also raised their concerns over pork importation that has led to the displacement of some 20% of hog farmers in just three years. They said this development has forced many backyard farmers to suspend and even close down operations.

Lacierda assured that the government is addressing the major needs and concerns of the country's hog raisers and pork producers.