South Cotabato, Philippines — The Office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OPVET) strengthened its regulatory and monitoring functions, recording over 37 million inspected animals and animal by-products and issuing more than 15,000 permits, based on its report.
Veterinarian II Ella Rose Frugalidad said the Permitting Section generated a total revenue of P9,063,657.70, reflecting the volume of transactions handled by the office in regulating the movement of animals and animal products.
“The OPVET’s permitting and regulatory functions are essential in ensuring that animals, livestock, poultry, and their by-products moving within and outside the province comply with veterinary requirements,” Frugalidad said.
The Provincial Veterinary Office stressed the province’s Citizens’ Charter includes the issuance of transport permits and Veterinary Health Certificates for livestock, poultry, and their by-products among the services provided by the Provincial Veterinary Office.
Meanwhile, according to Veterinarian IV Errol D. Javier, the permitting process is not simply an administrative requirement but forms part of the province’s broader veterinary protection measures.
“Ang bawat permit na ini-issue natin ay bahagi ng ating responsibility na masiguro na ang mga hayop at animal by-products na pumapasok at lumalabas ng probinsya ay dumadaan sa tamang proseso at dokumentasyon. Mahalaga ito upang maprotektahan ang animal health at maiwasan ang pagkalat ng mga sakit.”
Javier emphasized that proper documentation and inspection help veterinary authorities monitor the movement of animals and animal products while supporting biosecurity measures across the province.
The continued implementation of these regulatory measures also supports South Cotabato’s efforts to protect its livestock industry, safeguard animal health, and maintain the safety and integrity of animal products.
With the generated revenue, the OPVET’s Permitting Section continues to play a significant role in maintaining veterinary regulation and strengthening animal health protection in the province.
