Muntinlupa on lookout for 'double-dead lechon'

MANILA, Philippines - Muntinlupa City government is conducting a strict inspection of stores selling lechon or roast pig in Barangay Tunasan after receiving reports that “double dead hogs” were delivered to some of these stores.

A memorandum signed by city veterinarian Dr. Pamela Hernandez alleged that the double-dead hogs, which died of disease, originated from piggery farms in Laguna, Cavite and Batangas.

The City Veterinary’s Office earlier received a letter from the National Meat Inspection Service-National Capital Region officer-in-charge Eduardo Oblena that said double-dead hogs were delivered to five stores in Barangay Tunasan.

“The letter said our local lechonans in the area are making use of double-dead hogs in their business. These spoiled hogs are even delivered to the stores in broad daylight,” Hernandez said.

The report indicated that the deliveries are made on Friday and Saturday afternoons.

Muntinlupa Mayor Aldrin San Pedro said any store found selling double-dead meat will be immediately closed and its owners charged in court. – Rhodina Villanueva