Tantangan, South Cotabato – The fifth batch of the month-long Basic Meat Inspection Course (BMIC) officially commenced at the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center XII (ATI-RTC XII), with twenty-six aspiring meat inspectors from various local government units across Region XII and BARMM in attendance. Running until June 27, 2025, this intensive training aims to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and practical skills to ensure food safety and uphold quality meat inspection standards in their respective areas.
Spearheaded by ATI-RTC XII in collaboration with the National Meat Inspection Service – Regional Technical Operation Center XII (NMIS-RTOC XII), the training reflects the ongoing commitment to strengthening the local meat inspection system. Representing OIC-Center Director Dr. Jessie V. Beldia, Mr. John Lord L. Auman, RAgr., OIC-Chief of the Information Services Section of ATI-RTC XII, welcomed the participants and emphasized the critical role meat inspectors play in protecting public health by ensuring the integrity and safety of meat products consumed in communities.
Dr. Myrna I. Habacon, Regional Technical Director of NMIS-RTOC XII, also addressed the participants with an inspiring message. She underscored the enduring partnership between NMIS and ATI-RTC XII and encouraged attendees to take full advantage of the training. She emphasized that while the course is offered at no cost, its limited slots make it a valuable opportunity that should be fully maximized.
Following her message, Dr. Habacon officially opened the training with a comprehensive lecture on the overview of meat inspection. She discussed the history of meat inspection in the Philippines, its importance and rationale, and introduced participants to the core concepts underpinning the practice. Her presentation also included the organizational framework of NMIS, detailing its mandate, mission, vision, quality policy, and core values, as well as its organizational structure. She concluded by defining the roles and responsibilities of both NMIS and local government units in regulating meat safety and quality.
The BMIC is facilitated by Mr. Errol Chris A. Laspiñas, Agriculturist I; Ms. Kissciel Arao-Arao, Technical Staff; and Engr. Andrei Lou F. Egalin, Engineer I of ATI-RTC XII, in close coordination with NMIS staff, resource speakers, and technical experts. The course serves as a vital platform for cultivating well-trained inspectors capable of upholding the highest standards of meat inspection in the region.