Jagna Local Chief Executive Takes Swift Action to Ensure Food Safety Following Calamay Viral Video
By: Cherry Amor S. Galanido
In the fast-paced world of social media, the most unexpected things can go viral, and recently, a customer’s experience with unexpected purchasing expired calamay has taken the internet by storm. This peculiar incident not only highlights the power of online platforms but also sheds light on the importance of food safety and responsible consumer practices.
This concern has triggered a rapid response from our Local Chief Executive, Hon. Mayor Joseph A. Rañola, emphasizing the need for strict implementation of ordinances to safeguard public health. JaSMED Unit and DTI Negosyo Center immediately scheduled a meeting with the maker of the calamay product and conducted a thorough assessment of the facility. The goal of the discussion is to gather information for the sake of transparency, accountability, and corrective measures. Assessment of the immediate actions taken by the responsible party after the discovery of expired products was also discussed. Findings were reported back to Mayor Rañola and he ordered an urgent and thorough inspection of all Calamay production facilities to assess compliance with food safety regulations.
Recognizing the broader implications of food safety, the local chief executive extended the enforcement measures to include all food-producing organizations within the jurisdiction. This encompassing approach ensures a comprehensive strategy to prevent similar incidents and protect the buying public.
To properly address the issue, a meeting was called on January 10, 2024 which was duly attended by members of Jagna Calamay Makers and Vendors Association (JACAMAVEA), Presidents Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), Barbecue Stall Owners, and representative of the Senior Citizens Painitan. The said meeting aims to reinforce existing ordinances and regulations to ensure the production and distribution of food products adhere to health protocols and standards and prevent the recurrence of such incidents. The meeting was called by JaSMED Unit with heads of department such as the Provincial Sanitation Office, Municipal Health Office, DTI Negosyo Center, Municipal Planning and Development Office, PNP Women and Children’s Desk, Tourism Investment and Promotion Office, and our Municipal Administrator provided decisive actions to reinforce existing ordinances and regulations to ensure the production and distribution of food products adhere to health protocols and standards. Stringent penalties will be in place for those found violating food safety regulations. These penalties may include fines, suspension of operations, and even legal action in severe cases. Implementation of rigorous quality control measures shall also take effect immediately to ensure that Calamay products and other local food products meet safety standards. The conduct of stricter inspections of production facilities to identify and rectify potential issues promptly shall commence on January 12, 2024, by the health authorities of the municipality.
The swift and decisive actions taken by Mayor Rañola reflect a commitment to prioritizing public health and safety and rebuilding trust among consumers and stakeholders. By addressing the issue head-on and extending enforcement measures to all food-producing organizations, Jagna can collectively work towards establishing a robust and resilient food safety framework. This inclusive approach plays a pivotal role in maintaining high standards of food safety, fostering trust among consumers, and sustaining a healthy community.
