CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — Authorities seized approximately 40 tons of suspected unsafe frozen meat products valued at Php4.5 million and arrested two individuals during a joint operation conducted by the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) and government regulatory agencies at a processing facility in Bacolor, Pampanga.
The operation, carried out from June 18 to 19, 2026, targeted a commercial establishment in Barangay Calibutbut following reports that the facility was allegedly operating without the required License to Operate issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Arrested were the registered owner and production manager of the facility for alleged violations of the Food Safety Act of 2013 (Republic Act 10611) and the Meat Inspection Code of the Philippines (Republic Act 9296), as amended.
The operation was led by the Regional Special Operations Group of the Regional Intelligence Division 3 (RSOG-RID3) in coordination with the FDA Regional Field Office 3, National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) Region 3, concerned offices of the Bacolor Municipal Government, and the Bacolor Municipal Police Station.
During the inspection, authorities discovered and confiscated assorted frozen beef, pork, and chicken products with an estimated value of Php4.5 million. Initial findings revealed that some of the products had already expired and were allegedly being repackaged or recycled for distribution, posing potential health risks to consumers.
Authorities immediately ordered the temporary closure of the facility pending further investigation and appropriate action by the concerned regulatory agencies. The arrested individuals and the recovered evidence were placed under the custody of RSOG-RID3 for documentation and proper disposition.
Police Brig. Gen. Jess B. Mendez, Regional Director of PRO3, emphasized the importance of inter-agency cooperation in safeguarding public health and consumer welfare.
“This operation highlights the importance of vigilance and close coordination among government agencies in protecting consumers. We will continue to support efforts that ensure food products reaching the public meet safety standards and that those who violate the law are held accountable,” Mendez said.
He also commended the participating agencies for their collaborative efforts, noting that effective coordination remains essential in preventing unsafe products from reaching the market.
PRO3 assured the public that it will continue working closely with partner agencies to enforce food safety regulations and strengthen measures aimed at protecting consumers from products that may pose health and safety risks. (Jason de Asis)