Three employees of the Negros Occidental Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) have been investigated for allegedly soliciting money in expediting release of a transport permit for live hogs.

The investigation is in relation to a complaint received by the Provincial Legal Office (PLO), from an individual who requested anonymity, on Recognition of Active Surveillance (RAS) which is one of the requirements to transport live hogs.

A copy of screenshots to support that the transaction was consummated was attached to the complaint.

The complainant accused the three employees of asking money to expedite allegedly the release of the said permit.

“Nagso-solicit sila ng bayad in exchange na ma-release. In-attach ang screenshots na itong mga tao sa PVO nanghihingi ng pera, may transaksyong nangyari. Merong proof of payment na nangyari. Ang dalawa nasa field, ang isa nandyan lang sa PVO,” according to PLO officer in charge, Atty. Alberto Nellas, Jr.

The amount involved in the transaction already reached over P100,000, Nellas added.

On Monday morning, July 7, 2025, a show cause order was issued to the three employees. They are given three days to submit a reply.

“Hindi natin ito tino-tolerate. Whatever the investigation, we'll support the Provincial Legal Office upang maliwanagan at mabatid ang katotohanan,” Dr. Placeda Lemana, head of Negros Occidental PVO, said.

The employees could face administrative and criminal charges if their actions prove to have violated laws and regulations, especially those related to public service.

The PLO, however, did not name the three employees.