Residents’ Health and Safety Prompt Show Cause Orders Against 13 Poultry Operators
ALABEL, Sarangani Province — The Municipal Government of Alabel has formally issued Show Cause Orders to 13 poultry farms operating in areas collectively known as BATODO — Barangays Baluntay, Tokawal, and Domolok — following persistent and recurring complaints of widespread fly infestation affecting nearby communities.
Additional farms in Barangays Domolok, Tokawal, Maribulan, and Poblacion were also inspected after the problem reportedly escalated in recent months.
Mayor Lilibeth “Ybing” J. Salarda, MPA, directed the move in response to mounting concerns raised by residents regarding the serious health, sanitation, and daily living impacts caused by the uncontrolled fly population emanating from the poultry operations.
Comprehensive Inspection Underway
To ensure due process, the Local Government Unit activated a Joint Inspection Team (JIT) composed of the Mayor’s Office, Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO), Municipal Health Office (MHO), Office of the Building Official (OBO), Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO), Municipal Planning and Development Office (MPDO), and the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist (OMAG).
The JIT conducted site inspections focusing on sanitation, waste management, and biosecurity compliance — key elements that directly affect fly prevention and manure handling.
On December 23–24, inspection teams formally served Show Cause Orders to the affected farm operators, requiring them to implement corrective measures immediately and submit a written explanation within 15 days.
Operations at Risk if Violations Persist
The Show Cause Orders emphasize that continued fly infestation constitutes a violation of health and environmental standards. Poultry operators must provide documented proof of improvements, including proper manure disposal and effective fly control strategies.
Failure to comply within the required timeframe may result in serious penalties, including:
• Suspension or revocation of business permits
• Denial of sanitary and operational clearances
• Issuance of a Cease and Desist Order or full closure of operations
The BPLO also clarified that no Temporary Business Permits will be granted to the involved poultry farms unless they demonstrate full compliance with regulations. Barangay permits and clearances for 2026 will likewise depend on verified corrective outcomes.
Next Steps: Technical Evaluation and Surprise Monitoring
After the 15–day compliance period lapses, the MHO, OMAG, and Provincial Veterinary Office (PVET) will lead a technical evaluation to assess whether the corrective actions are effective. The LGU warns that regular and surprise inspections will continue until the problem is permanently addressed.
Mayor Salarda: Public Welfare Comes First
Mayor Salarda affirmed that the municipal government will strictly enforce environmental and health regulations to ensure public safety while still supporting responsible business operations.
“Dili namo tugotan nga ang negosyo magpadayon kon makadaot na sa katawhan. Ang among prayoridad mao ang kaluwasan, kahimsog, ug kalimpyo sa komunidad,” Salarda stressed.
The LGU assures residents that it remains committed to protecting the environment and community health as it pushes for sustainable and compliant poultry industry practices in Alabel.