The National Meat Inspection Service in Central Visayas (NMIS-7) reported Wednesday that the number of registered or accredited meat establishments grew by 20.37% in 2024.

The increase brought the total to 65 establishments, up from 56 in 2023.

Dr. Alvin Leal, NMIS-7 regional technical director, said to DAILY TRIBUNE that the agency remains focused on protecting public health and ensuring the safety of meat consumers, highlighting the theme "Safe Meat for All."

Leal cited key achievements, including the expansion of their reach through the accreditation of more meat establishments, and the successful upgrade of the Bogo City meat facility to a Single "A" classification, improving compliance with meat safety standards.

“These accomplishments reflect the dedication of the MIS RTOC-7 team and its partners to maintaining the highest standards of meat safety while addressing the evolving needs of the industry," Leal said in a report submitted to the Office of the Presidential Assistant for the Visayas (OPAV).

Currently, there are 51 meat establishments operating in Cebu Province, seven in Bohol, five in Negros Oriental, and two in Cebu City.

NMIS-7 also reported that 1,633 kilograms of meat were confiscated and condemned during enforcement activities in 2024.