PNP Highway Patrol Group Intercepts Smuggled Brazilian Meat in Bulacan Operation
In a significant enforcement action over the weekend, elements of the Philippine National Police Highway Patrol Group (HPG) in Central Luzon successfully intercepted a shipment of imported meat products originating from Brazil. The operation, which took place along Governor Fortunato Halili Road in Santa Maria, Bulacan on January 31, 2026, resulted in the arrest of at least eight individuals and the impounding of three trucks involved in the illicit transport.
Traffic Stop Leads to Major Discovery
According to Colonel Sally L. Mangacop, commander of the Regional Highway Patrol Unit in Central Luzon (RHPU 3), the interception occurred during routine anti-carnapping operations. Personnel flagged down the three trucks for multiple traffic violations, including drivers not wearing seatbelts, absence of motor vehicle official receipts (OR), and unregistered vehicles. Upon inspection, the drivers failed to present any documentation for the cargo, prompting further investigation.
Details of the Seized Contraband
The drivers reportedly disclosed to RHPU 3 officers that they were transporting imported frozen boneless pork legs. Colonel Mangacop revealed that the meat products, sourced from the Allee Disposal Facility, were en route to Pulilan before being seized. Following the arrest, the suspects were taken to the regional office in Camp Olivas, City of San Fernando, Pampanga for questioning and processing.
Ownership and Disposal Procedures
Authorities identified the owners of two trucks as Solomon Joven of Santa Maria, Bulacan and Gerardo Eleazar, while the ownership of the third truck remains under verification. In a coordinated effort, the seized imported meat was transported to Digama Waste Management Services in Porac town for proper disposal. The National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS), led by Regional Technical Operations Center Region 3 Supervising Meat Control Officer Isagani Julius Rodrigo, supervised the disposal process on Monday to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
Implications for Food Safety and Law Enforcement
This operation highlights the ongoing efforts of the PNP HPG to combat smuggling and uphold food safety standards in the Philippines. The interception of undocumented meat products underscores the risks associated with unregulated imports, which can pose health hazards and undermine local agricultural industries. Authorities continue to investigate the case to determine the full extent of the smuggling network and prevent similar incidents in the future.
