Law Summary
Problems Identified
- Existence of numerous legal and illegal fees and charges in production, transport, and marketing.
- These fees escalate production and marketing costs, raising meat prices.
- Dependence of livestock industry on quality animal feeds requiring stricter regulation.
Scope of Fee Regulation
- Termination of collection of all fees and charges except:
- Ante-mortem and post-mortem inspection fees.
- Delivery, stockyard, and slaughter fees authorized by the Secretary of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
- Prohibition of other fees such as reinspection, inventory, certificate of ownership, transfer certificates, Mayor's permits, city hall fees, customs, shipping certificates, and checkpoint charges.
Inspection Regulations
- Ante-mortem and post-mortem inspections conducted by government-employed veterinarians considered valid for carcasses transported from accredited slaughterhouses to trading centers.
- Additional post-mortem inspections allowed only if requested by buyer and conducted by government or duly accredited veterinarians.
Establishment of National Meat Inspection Commission
- Secretary of Agriculture and Natural Resources empowered to establish the Commission.
- Commission to promulgate policies and procedures relating to marketing flow, preservation, and inspection of livestock and products.
- Policies have the force of law once approved and are implemented by relevant government agencies at various levels.
Adoption of Feed Regulation Amendment
- Senate Bill No. 627 is adopted and approved.
- Amends the Livestock and Poultry Feeds Act to enhance control over manufacture, importation, sale, and distribution of animal feeds.
Legal Authority and Implementation
- Issued under Proclamation No. 1081 and General Order No. 1 following declaration of Martial Law.
- Signed by President Ferdinand E. Marcos as Commander-in-Chief.
- Enforcement entrusted to Secretary of Agriculture and associated agencies to ensure compliance and reform in the livestock sector.