DAVAO CITY — Some 22 tons of frozen meat from China was confiscated by the National Bureau of Investigation on January 20, from the arrested five suspects during an entrapment operation in Caloocan City on January 20.
The bust followed a tip from the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) regarding illegally imported meat being sold at significantly lower market prices.
According to the NBI, a certain Kiel Rozzan Barbado Mendoza arranged a meet-up to deliver 75 sacks of smuggled meat, weighing a total of 1,500 kilograms, in exchange for an initial cash payment of ₱50,000.
Arrested in the sting operation were: Melba Cabenian, Mark Christian Mission, Bregido Elbiña, Rinie Sanchez, and Ana Cristina Galvez
The suspects face multiple charges under: Republic Act 10536 (Meat Inspection Code of the Philippines), Republic Act 12022 (Anti-Agricultural Sabotage Act of 2024)
However, Mendoza remains at large, and authorities are conducting follow-up operations to locate him.
The NBI continues its intensified efforts to combat smuggling, counterfeiting, and other illegal activities affecting public welfare and economic stability.
Edith Z Caduaya studied Bachelor of Science in Development Communication at the University of Southern Mindanao.
The chairperson of Mindanao Independent Press Council (MIPC) Inc.
