MAY 4, 2026 — NCRPO’s raid in Marikina exposed a massive public health threat — 20 tons of “double dead” meat meant for Metro Manila markets. The bust not only saved consumers from potential foodborne illness but also highlighted the scale of illegal meat trading that continues to endanger our families.

The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) struck hard against illegal meat traders last Thursday night, confiscating 20 tons of double dead meat — known locally as “botcha” — from a trading facility in Barangay Tañong, Marikina. The raid, backed by the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS), led to the arrest of 12 suspects, including management, staff, and security personnel.

NCRPO Director Maj. Gen. Anthony Aberin stressed, “This is not a minor infraction; it is a direct assault on public health. The sheer volume of this seizure reflects a calculated risk taken by these individuals to profit at the expense of consumer safety.”

Inside the warehouse, authorities uncovered frozen products long past expiration, all declared unfit for human consumption by NMIS experts. Aberin stressed that the operation prevented what could have been a massive outbreak of foodborne illness across Metro Manila, adding that intelligence networks are being expanded to track down similar underground operations.

The suspects now face charges under the Food Safety Act of 2013 (RA 10611) and the Meat Inspection Code of the Philippines (RA 10536). These laws are designed to protect consumers from unsafe food practices, but enforcement remains a challenge given the profitability of illegal meat trading.

Authorities reminded the public to be vigilant when buying meat. 

Signs of double dead meat include:

• Pale, grayish, or bluish-green tint
• Sticky texture, often frozen
• Foul or spoiled smell
• Suspiciously cheap prices, usually sold in plastic bags

This raid is more than just a police headline — it’s about trust in what ends up on the dinner table. With rising food prices and shrinking purchasing power, many are tempted by cheaper meat options. But the risks are grave: “botcha” can spread dangerous bacteria and diseases, putting children, elders, and entire communities at risk.

The Marikina bust is a wake-up call. It shows how public health and consumer safety are constantly under threat from unscrupulous traders who exploit economic hardship. It also underscores the need for stronger coordination between police, regulators, and local governments to ensure that unsafe products never reach wet markets or neighborhood stores.

Now if 20 tons of unsafe meat nearly made it to our plates, how many more hidden threats do you think are slipping past our markets every day?

(Image: National Capital Region Police Office)