The Cebu City Council is considering Significant changes in rates associated with livestock slaughter and meat transportation services.. These modifications, introduced by councilor Noel Wenceslao, aim to update regulations that have remained unchanged for more than 30 years.

Here’s what you need to know about the proposed adjustments.

Why are the rates changing?

On October 23, 2024, Wenceslas submitted the amendments for first reading, focusing on revisions to specific sections of the Revised Omnibus Tax Ordinance. He noted that the current rates, under the purview of the Department of Veterinary Medicine and Fisheries (DVMF), no longer reflect current market rates.

“Ubos kaayo ang atung presyo, unya mahal na ba ron (Our rates are very low, but costs have increased significantly),” he said, emphasizing the need for an adjustment.

What services will see rate increases?

The proposed amendments cover a variety of services related to livestock and meat handling. These include:

Sacrifice fees: Fees per animal slaughtered for human consumption:

Transportation rates: Charges for transportation of prepared animal carcasses and primary parts using government meat cars:

• P50 for cattle, carabao or horses

• P40 for pigs

• P30 for goats or sheep

• P10 per cage for domestic poultry

Barnyard Rates: Charges for keeping animals in a city-owned pen prior to slaughter:

Regulatory Service Fees: Applicable for inspections of animal carcasses and meat in public markets:

Registration and license fees: Fees for various meat handlers and sellers:

• P300 for meat handlers, cutters and sellers

• P350 for butchers

• P450 for butcher shop operators, processors and suppliers

Veterinary services rates: Including autopsy and health certification:

Next steps in the legislative process

Wenceslao clarified that these modifications are still in the initial stages. Before the council can finalize the changes, it will hold a public hearing to gather feedback. This will be followed by a second reading and ultimately a third and final reading, before new rates are implemented.

Potential benefits

The rate adjustments are expected to generate additional revenue for the city as the DVMF seeks to align its charges with current economic realities.

Alice Utlang, head of DVMF, said “it is about time” to implement these changes, reflecting a broader trend in the city to modernize its regulatory framework for livestock and meat services. (SunStar Cebu)