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MANILA – Local hog raisers have been remiss in their commitment to join Bureau of Customs personnel during inspection of imported meat products, according to Customs Commissioner Rufino Biazon.
In a statement, Biazon called on the Hog Raisers Association of the Philippines to do its part in addressing smuggling.
“This will finally solve their problem. This has worked with the Federation of Philippine Industries and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry. And there is no reason why this will not work with the Hog Raisers Association,” Biazon said, referring to joint inspections of incoming shipments.
Under the memorandum of agreement that the hog raisers’ group and Customs signed two months ago, a representative from the private sector would take part in the inspection of incoming meat products to ensure importers comply with requirements.
“We are doing everything we can on our end. But there are things that experts from the meat industry can help enhance our initiatives. I therefore, urge them to take advantage of this openness, like what the other business federations in the country did,” Biazon said.
Hog raisers had blamed Customs of inaction against smuggling of frozen imported meat products. They have threatened a five-day “pork holiday” to dramatize their complaint.
A Customs official who requested anonymity said the agency assumes a “secondary role” in the inspection of imported meat products, as bureau personnel ascertain compliance with documentary requirements pertaining to duties and taxes.
Other parties to the inspection include the Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Animal Industry and National Meat Inspection Service – all of which ensure incoming shipments are fit for human consumption.
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