Ensuring that meat products reaching Filipino tables are safe, clean, and high-quality begins with well-trained meat inspectors on the ground. In Eastern Visayas, this commitment to food safety was reinforced as the Agricultural Training Institute–Regional Training Center 8 (ATI-RTC 8 ), in partnership with the National Meat Inspection Service – Regional Technical Operation Center VIII (NMIS-RTOC 8 ), successfully concluded the Basic Meat Inspection Training Course (BMIC) on May 1, 2026.
Over the course of 20 days, 20 meat inspection officers from various Local Government Units (LGUs) underwent a rigorous, comprehensive training program to sharpen their technical skills and deepen their understanding of meat inspection practices. The course blended lectures, interactive workshops, hands-on practicums, and field visits to meat establishments—offering participants a holistic learning experience that bridges theory and real-world application.
More than just a technical course, the BMIC served as a platform to reinforce the critical role of meat inspectors in safeguarding public health. Participants were equipped with updated knowledge on inspection procedures, food safety standards, hygiene protocols, and quality control measures, alongside a strong grounding in the legal requirements that govern their work.
Highlighting the importance of sustained collaboration, NMIS OIC Executive Director Dr. Fernando N. Lotoc, who graced the closing ceremony, emphasized the enduring partnership between NMIS and ATI in building the capacities of meat inspectors across the region. This message was echoed by NMIS-RTOC 8 Regional Technical Director Dr. Eduardo Glendon A. Alvarez, who encouraged the graduates to uphold the highest standards of professionalism in their respective localities.
ATI-RTC 8 Center Director Ms. Hazel Grace T. Taganas also expressed her support, recognizing the vital contribution of trained meat inspectors in ensuring food safety and protecting consumer welfare.
Behind the success of the training were the dedicated facilitators: Mr. Allen P. Goroy, ATI-RTC 8 Agriculturist II and Livestock Program Point Person; Ms. Jessalyn Lunario, Technical Support Staff I; and Dr. Russell T. Adarayan, Senior Meat Control Officer of NMIS-RTOC 8, who guided participants throughout the program.
As the graduates step back into their respective communities, they do so as stronger advocates of food safety—tasked not only with inspection, but with upholding public trust in the meat industry and ensuring that every product that reaches the market meets the standards every Filipino deserves.
