Illegal, unsanitary slaughterhouse in QC raided

Authorities acting on a tip raided an illegal slaughterhouse in Quezon City over the weekend.

The city veterinary department team found the establishment unsanitary, and warned the meat processed there could cause diseases, GMA News' Victoria Tulad reported Saturday.

Inspectors found the slaughterhouse located at Kaingin 2 in Barangay Pansol had dirty cages for pigs, while the roof was damaged and cockroaches were crawling on the walls.

On the other hand, the innards of animals slaughtered inside the establishment were seen scattered on the floor.

City veterinarian Dr. Ana Marie Cabel said the meat from the slaughterhouse is considered "hot meat" or tainted meat since it has no meat inspection certificate.

She said this meat may pose a health risk to consumers since it is not inspected.

The team confiscated the meat and equipment from the slaughterhouse and were to bring the meat to the veterinary department to see if it is edible.

City veterinary department meat inspector Dick Domingo said they conducted a two-week surveillance on the area.

He said they are verifying the market that buys meat from this slaughterhouse may not have a business permit.

Authorities are verifying information that a certain Elmer Rivera owns the slaughterhouse, which may supply meat to University of the Philippines, Kaingin Road, and Barangay Pansol.

The team went to the supposed outlet in Barangay Pansol but it was closed.

The owner of the slaughterhouse may face fines of P200,000 to P1 million, or a jail term of six to 12 years.

Meanwhile, authorities reminded consumers to check for a seal of approval and meat inspection certificate on meat to make sure it is safe to eat. — Joel Locsin /LBG, GMA News