Author (Sponsor): Hon. Francisco M. Mendoza
Date Filed: April 07, 2026
Building on the previous draft, this revised proposed ordinance officially bans inhumane livestock marking methods in Naga City—specifically Zorro marking on pigs and hot-iron branding on large cattle—replacing them with a mandatory, high-tech ear tagging system. To support this transition, the city will establish an On-Site Livestock Identification Center (OLIC) at the Naga City District Abattoir. The facility will use fiber laser technology to produce tamper-proof tags. The program is designed to be self-sustaining through a revolving fund and features a socialized pricing model to ensure that small backyard farmers are not financially burdened while commercial traders cover the operational costs.
Highlights of the Revised Proposed Ordinance
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Ban on Cruel Practices: Absolute prohibition of “Zorro marking” (deep skin incisions) on swine and hot-iron branding on ruminants like cattle and carabaos.
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New Tech Standard: Ear tagging is now the exclusive and mandatory identification method, using thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) tags engraved via fiber laser for digital traceability.
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Socialized Fee Structure:
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Backyard Raisers (1–5 heads): ₱25.00 per head.
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Commercial Traders (6+ heads): ₱150.00 per head.
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Premium/Custom Tags: ₱75.00 per head (includes logos or QR codes).
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Government Mandated Programs: No fee for disease eradication or emergency management.
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Economic & Health Benefits: Reduces animal stress to prevent “dark, firm, and dry” (DFD) meat conditions, improving meat quality and food safety for consumers.
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The “Revolving Fund”: All collected fees go into a dedicated fund used strictly for buying tags, equipment maintenance, and staff training, ensuring the program doesn’t rely on the city’s general budget indefinitely.
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Initial Investment: The city is appropriating ₱132,700.00 for the initial setup of the laser tagging station.
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Strict Penalties: Violators face local fines up to ₱5,000.00 and potential permit revocation, plus criminal charges under the national Animal Welfare Act which can include imprisonment.
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Personnel Accountability: Specific administrative penalties (including dismissal) for abattoir staff who engage in overcharging, failure to remit fees, or bypassing the tagging process.
- Revised Version