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NMIS, Jones Isabela Sign Deal to Upgrade Meat Facilities

Jun 23, 2026 1,401

Every day, Filipino families rely on safe and quality meat products for their meals. Behind this basic necessity is a system of inspection, regulation, and facility management designed to protect public health and ensure that meat sold in markets meets national safety standards.

In a move aimed at strengthening food safety and improving local meat processing facilities, the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Jones, Isabela formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on June 22, 2026, in Quezon City under the Meat Establishment Improvement Program (MEIP).

The agreement supports the implementation of the Meat Inspection Code of the Philippines, established under Republic Act No. 9296 and amended by Republic Act No. 10536. The law encourages local government units to improve meat establishments and slaughter facilities to meet national standards, while the national government provides technical and financial assistance to support these efforts.

As one of the local government units qualified under the Meat Establishment Improvement Program, the Municipality of Jones will benefit from a cost-sharing arrangement between the national government and the local government. The program is designed to help upgrade local meat establishments and improve compliance with meat inspection regulations and food safety requirements.

Officials said the initiative will contribute to better infrastructure, improved sanitation practices, and stronger meat inspection services. These improvements are expected to help ensure that consumers receive safe, wholesome, and quality meat products while supporting the growth of the local livestock and meat industry.

The signing ceremony was led by NMIS Officer-in-Charge Executive Director Dr. Fernando N. Lontoc and Jones, Isabela Mayor Nhel C. Montano. Also present during the event were NMIS Regional Technical Operations Center II Officer-in-Charge Regional Technical Director Dr. Venus G. Garcia, Municipal Engineer Engr. Florentino U. Agliam Jr., and Sangguniang Bayan Chairman on Agriculture and Cooperatives Hon. Arland F. Ramos.

Food safety experts have long emphasized the importance of maintaining modern and properly regulated meat establishments. Upgraded facilities help reduce contamination risks, improve product quality, and strengthen consumer confidence in meat products sold in local markets.

The Meat Establishment Improvement Program is part of the government's broader effort to modernize the meat industry while promoting public health protection. Through partnerships with local government units, the program seeks to ensure that meat processing and slaughter facilities comply with national standards and operate under sound inspection systems.

For local livestock producers, meat vendors, and consumers, improved facilities can contribute to a more efficient and reliable supply chain. Enhanced compliance with food safety regulations also helps create opportunities for industry growth and supports the long-term development of local agricultural economies.

The partnership between NMIS and the Municipality of Jones reflects a shared commitment to improving food safety standards and strengthening meat industry infrastructure. Officials expressed optimism that the project will bring lasting benefits to both producers and consumers while helping ensure safer meat products for communities in the region.

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