Mabilog orders tighter slaughterhouse security
Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog has ordered tighter security measures at the city slaughterhouse in Brgy. Tacas, Jaro district to prevent the possible entry of “double-dead” meat from animals affected by hemorrhagic septicemia.
Mabilog has directed Marly Bayoneta, abattoir officer-in-charge, to strictly monitor and check the condition of animals being brought to the facility for slaughter.
“Slaughtered animals should be safe from any diseases because we want fresh meat delivered to our markets,” he said.
Hemorrhagic septicemia is a highly fatal bacterial disease that can kill an animal within eight to 24 hours.
So far, 14 animal deaths, including nine carabaos and five cows, have been recorded in Leon, Iloilo, particularly in the villages of Tacuyong Norte and Jamog Gines.
Mabilog’s order also came on the heels of reports that unidentified persons are planning to sabotage the slaughterhouse operations.
Recently, personnel complained of missing meat pieces and equipment, including knives and aluminum containers, and even pulley chain.
Mabilog said he is waiting for City Veterinarian Tomas Forteza to explain these incidents, adding that he will not hesitate to relieve Forteza from his post if he will continue to refuse to see him.
