A newly constructed class “AA” abattoir in Catanduanes will provide livestock and hog raisers with a means to ensure clean and safe meat for the public, the Department of Agriculture in Bicol (DA-5) said on Tuesday.
DA-5 information officer Lovella Guarin said the slaughterhouse, worth PHP43.9 million and located in Barangay Bigaa, was funded by the DA’s Philippine Rural Development Project (PRDP) in Bicol and was turned over to the local government unit of Virac on March 11, 2025.
Funds also came from the 10-percent equity contribution from the Virac LGU as a counterpart for the subproject.
“Since it has just been turned over, the LGU of Virac needs to meet certain requirements by the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) to obtain a license to operate. The slaughterhouse’s operation will depend on the LGU, provided they have trained butchers,” Guarin told the PNA over the phone.
She said the facility can process 1,723 swine heads and 224 large ruminant headsmonthly.
“This will significantly benefit a wide range of stakeholders, including 1,277 livestock and hog raisers, 42 registered meat shop owners, 152 resort and guesthouse operators, food service providers, and 16,502 households,” Guarin added.
An abattoir that is given an “AA” grade by the NMIS is allowed to market its products anywhere in the Philippines.
Guarin also said that the previous slaughterhouse in Virac, which had been in operation for two decades, managed an average monthly slaughter of 78 heads of cattle and 529 swine heads before it was destroyed during Typhoon Rolly (international name: Goni) in 2020.
“The new abattoir is expected to generate employment opportunities for the local community and create a sustainable source of income. It will also ensure the safety of meat being sold in the market; hence, it will keep the public away from various diseases,” she added.
In a statement, Virac Mayor Samuel Laynes said with a centralized facility and an effective waste management system, the community will no longer need to purchase meat that could pose risks due to improper slaughter methods or unauthorized individuals. (PNA)
