By Xander Ledesma
The police chief of Dumanjug town in Cebu, Capt. Kelvin Roy Mamaradlo, along with his deputy, Lt. Heine Aspera, and intelligence officer, Staff Sgt. Reynold Burlado, were relieved from their posts following allegations of involvement in hog smuggling from Negros Island.
The Cebu Provincial Government took swift action by issuing an executive order on October 25, 2024, establishing an Anti-Smuggling Inter-Agency Task Force to address the illegal transport of livestock, goods, and other cargo across southern and western Cebu. These areas have reported unauthorized shipments arriving without the necessary permits or clearances from government agencies.
Reports from concerned citizens revealed that undocumented hogs were being unloaded during the night in three barangays—Camboang, Bitoon, and Tangil—prompting further investigation. The unregulated entry of hogs bypassed veterinary checks and shipping permits required by the Department of Agriculture, raising public health concerns.
Governor Gwendolyn Garcia emphasized the risk posed to consumers and questioned the safety of the smuggled livestock, stating, “How can we ensure the safety of these hogs if they have not undergone certification by local veterinarians and proper shipping procedures from the DA?”
The task force, led by PRO 7 Director Brig. Gen. Anthony Aberin, includes key law enforcement agencies and local government officials. They aim to increase visibility at ports, checkpoints, and other entry points to curb illegal activities.
While the police officers have been transferred pending investigation, authorities assure the public that if evidence proves their involvement, appropriate charges will be filed.
Authorities continue to verify the scale of the smuggling operations as they work to ensure accountability and uphold public safety.