Nine hog farms in Central Luzon are under investigation for allegedly operating sans permits.
The Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) of the Department of Agriculture said the unregistered farms are located in Bulacan, Tarlac, and Pampanga.
The agency said it issued show cause orders against the farms shortly after the midterm elections, for violating health, safety, and environmental standards.
The bureau is now assessing the farm’s responses and may pursue law enforcement against them if needed, said BAI Acting Director Christian Daquigan.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said unauthorized hog farming inputs undermines government efforts to stabilize the supply and price of pork, especially as the industry continues to recover from African Swine Fever.
“As we modernize Philippine agriculture, everyone must understand that unlicensed operations will not be tolerated. Compliance is not optional—it is fundamental to protecting both consumers and the livelihoods of law-abiding farmers,” he said.
Laurel directed BAI to expand inspection coverage nationwide to ensure that hog farms meet licensing and operational requirements.
He said this is part of the national government’s campaign to professionalize the livestock industry and safeguard public health.