THE ILOILO City government is holding a conference on Dec. 1 to entice investors for its P139.35-million slaughterhouse upgrade project under a public-private partnership scheme.

“The potential revenue for this project is worth your time and investment. May this meeting become a blueprint for local leaders, private partners, and participants in ensuring a dynamic and progressive Iloilo City,” Mayor Jerry P. Treñas said in a statement over the weekend.

Under the proposed contract, the private sector partner will design, finance, rehabilitate, and operate the abattoir within a 25-year concession period.

The existing slaughterhouse will be upgraded, including mechanization, to get Double A standard accreditation from the National Meat Inspection Service, with a target capacity of 500 heads per day.

“The facility’s target capacity of 500 heads per day aims to meet the growing demands for meat products in the city and nearby areas. This will also ensure the provision of adequate, safe and quality meat products for consumers,” Mr. Treñas said.

Iloilo City has tapped the Public Private Partnership (PPP) Center to assist in the project, with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

“Potential revenue sources for the proponent will come from user fees, and may include slaughterhouse fee, corral fee, meat delivery fee/handling fee and slaughter fee,” according to a project brief from the PPP. — MSJ