Senators hail new National Meat Inspection Code

MANILA, Philippines - Two senators have expressed optimism that the sale of “botcha” or double dead meat in the markets will be eliminated with the enactment of a law amending the National Meat Inspection Code.

President Aquino has signed Republic Act 10536, imposing imprisonment of six to 12 years and fine ranging from P100,000 to P1 million against persons engaged in the trade of  “hot” meat.

If the violator of the law is a public official, the penalty will include disqualification from holding public office.

Sen. Manuel Villar Jr., principal author of RA 10536, said the stiffer penalties provided by the law should address the difficulties faced by the authorities in curbing the sale of botcha.

“Despite aggressive raids conducted by the National Meat Inspection Service, local officials and the police, those arrested are able to elude criminal liability because the penalties are weak. With tougher penalties, we will be able to curb the botcha trade,” Villar said.

During the public hearings conducted by Villar as chairman of the Senate committee on trade and commerce, it was revealed that several unscrupulous businessmen have found ways to pass off botcha as fresh meat to unsuspecting clients.

“The President should be commended for making this measure a priority. Botcha trade has been going on for a while despite public warnings,” he said.

Sen. Francis Pangilinan, chairman of the Senate committee on agriculture, said the new law was intended to make the National Meat Inspection Code more relevant to the times.

“We need to protect the welfare of the consumers against the unconscionable sale of botcha, which causes sickness and even death,” Pangilinan said.