By Erwin Nicavera/PNA
BACOLOD CITY — Veterinary inspectors in Negros Occidental have intensified the monitoring of livestock and poultry animals and their by-products transported through various ports in the province ahead of the holidays.
Dr. Renante Decena, head of the Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO), said Wednesday players in the local livestock and poultry industry are expanding their operations to cater to the higher demand this December.
During the Christmas and New Year holidays, the domestic movement of animals and animal by-products are expected to peak, Decena said.
“Veterinary inspections are generally conducted to ensure that both animal and public health are protected during the transport of products by producers and breeders to different points in the country,” he added.
The PVO issues veterinary health certificates as a measure to regulate shippers in the form of an active surveillance on the conditions of animals, particularly the diseases they might carry.
“Veterinary inspectors are deployed to the nearest seaports and airport in the province to readily conduct inspection, especially of outgoing animals and animal by-products,” Decena said.
Records of PVO showed that from January to November this year, a total of 106,819 veterinary health certificates were issued province-wide, resulting in veterinary fees collection of about PHP6.4 million.
Decena said the PVO is also intensifying the monitoring of local meat stalls to ensure proper pricing, hygienic handling, and good storage of meat, and other products.
There are 279 meat stalls in Negros Occidental, excluding Bacolod City.
Veterinarians and livestock inspectors regularly monitor and update the profiles of meat stalls and traders in coordination with different local government units, Decena added.
