The Department of Agriculture (DA) has cleared 13 Chilean companies to export beef, pork and chicken to the country to boost food supply stability and protect consumers from price shocks.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said over the weekend that the DA has approved the three-year accreditation, valid through 2028, which also allows the exporters to ship meat by-products, including offals and animal fats.

“As much as we strive to produce more food locally, we also need to ensure steady and reliable sources overseas,” Tiu Laurel said. 

“Recent natural calamities and recurring animal diseases remind us of the importance of securing alternative food supply channels to protect consumers and stabilize prices.”

Chilean government request

The accreditation followed a request from the Chilean government and a June inspection mission by the DA to Chile, which evaluated the country’s veterinary services, animal health systems, and food safety controls. 

The mission confirmed that Chile meets the standards of the World Organization for Animal Health, while the 13 companies passed the Philippine quarantine and meat inspection requirements.

Expands Phl’s network of suppliers

According to the DA, the new accreditation expands the country’s network of global meat suppliers, complementing imports from the United States, Canada, Brazil and Spain. 

Likewise, it supports the government’s broader food security strategy to diversify sources, prevent supply disruptions, and ensure stable prices in the local market.