NBI probe on expired meat products

A big amount of expired meat products is the object of a deeper probe by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) after agents seized it in Bulacan.

As per the directive of NBI Director Jaime Santiago, a follow-up investigation will be conducted to address the illegal sale of unsafe and hazardous meat products in the market.

This after an operation was carried out by the NBI-Central Luzon Regional Office (NBI-CELRO) on 12 March 2025 as it executed a search warrant against Atkins Import and Export Resources Inc. in Meycuayan City, Bulacan, for violating Republic Act 7394 (the Consumer Act of the Philippines) in relation to Republic Act 10611 (the Food Safety Act of 2013). 

Agents, during the operation discovered and seized a massive cache of expired meat products, with an estimated value of P600 million. 

The expired meat products were found in an unacceptable state — contaminated, foul-smelling and already decomposing. 

The discovery underscores a dire public health threat, as consuming such unsafe products can result in severe illness or even death, the NBI said in a statement. 

The seized products will be swiftly and safely disposed of at the Far East Fuel Corporation facility in San Ildefenso, Bulacan, in full compliance with safety protocols. 

In addition, the NBI-CELRO will file formal charges against the responsible parties within Atkins Import and Export Resources Inc., holding them accountable under the relevant penal laws.

Santiago has made it clear that the NBI remains unwavering in its commitment to combat illegal trade practices, particularly those involving substandard and dangerous food products.