New Philippine law puts reshapes veterinary oversight

It aims to streamline oversight, strengthen animal health regulation, and enhance competitiveness in Philippine livestock and poultry sectors.

Continuity of services

Regulatory services will remain uninterrupted during the transitions. To guide stakeholders, the advisory outlines several measures to ensure smooth handling of applications and permits:

• Applications filed before October 28, 2025 will continue to be processed by the FDA; those filed after will will be received directly by DA agencies.
• Pending applications after April 25, 2026 will be transferred to the BAI.
• FDA-issued permits will remain valid until expiration.
• Current fees stay until revised after public consultation.

Officials emphasize that the transition is designed to simplify processes, ensure continuity, and reinforce the country’s regulatory framework for animal health and production.

Role of the NDA

Meanwhile, the National Dairy Authority (NDA) now holds full regulatory authority over the Philippine dairy industry, covering testing, accreditation, and post-market distribution.

The expanded role complements reforms livestock and poultry, ensuring consistent oversight across all animal industry sectors.

These changes are expected to provide clearer regulation and more efficient processes for livestock, poultry, and dairy producers nationwide.

Welcome development

Industry stakeholders industries welcomed the move. Many have highlighted that stronger oversight by the BAI would improve biosecurity and disease management, reducing risks like avian influenza and African swine fever.

They also pointed out that the shift would shorten approval timelines for animal health products and reduce regulatory bottlenecks.