CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga (PIA) — The Department of Agriculture (DA), through the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), issued show cause orders to nine hog farms in Central Luzon for operating without necessary permits.
The unregistered farms, located in Bulacan, Tarlac, and Pampanga, are under scrutiny for violating health, safety, and environmental standards.
This move aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to regulate livestock operations and ensure integrity of the country’s food supply chain.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. stressed that unauthorized hog farming undermines government efforts to stabilize supply and price of pork, especially as the industry continues to recover from African Swine Fever.
“As we modernize Philippine agriculture, everyone must understand that unlicensed operations will not be tolerated. Compliance is not optional—it is fundamental to protecting both consumers and the livelihoods of law-abiding farmers,” he said.
BAI Acting Director Christian Daquigan said the orders were served shortly after the midterm elections.
He added that BAI is now assessing the farm’s responses and may pursue further enforcement if needed.
Laurel directed BAI to expand inspection coverage nationwide to ensure that hog farms meet licensing and operational requirements.
This is part of the national government’s broader campaign to professionalize the livestock industry and safeguard public health. (CLJD/MJSC, PIA Region 3-Pampanga)
