Laoag city: Local authorities here have prohibited the backyard slaughter of hogs following the approval of an ordinance aimed at protecting consumer health and safety. Ordinance 13SP-2025-075, sponsored by City Councilor Enrico Ang, bans the slaughter of animals in residential backyards and other non-accredited sites. The city council unanimously approved the measure on Tuesday afternoon.
According to Philippines News Agency, Ang emphasized the necessity of passing this ordinance for the food safety and security of consumers, drawing upon the Meat Inspection Code of the Philippines as the basis for the local law. The Meat Inspection Code regulates the slaughtering, processing, and handling of meat to ensure hygiene and quality. It mandates the National Meat Inspection Service to accredit establishments and enforce food safety standards, with penalties, including heavy fines and imprisonment.
Ang urged barangay officials to monitor strict implementation, citing the persistent risks of African Swine Fever and other animal diseases. Violators face penalties ranging from PHP2,000 for the first offense to PHP5,000 for the third offense, along with the revocation of licenses and confiscation of meat products.
