REGIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Province Of Aklan Under State Of Calamity Due To ASF Outbreak
Photo credit: Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan
Aklan, Philippines - The Province of Aklan has declared a State of Calamity in response to the African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak, as confirmed by the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OPVET). The decision was made during a Special Session held on May 19, 2023, by the 19th Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Aklan, led by Vice Governor Atty. Reynaldo M. Quimpo.
ASF cases have been reported in seven municipalities across the province. The affected areas include Balete, Tangalan, Makato, Numancia, Kalibo, Batan, and New Washington. African Swine Fever is a contagious and fatal disease caused by a virus that affects pigs of all ages. Unfortunately, no vaccine is currently available to combat the ASF virus.
During the session, Vice Governor Quimpo sought clarification from Dr. Ma. Cyrosa Leen Mabel C. Siñel, the Provincial Veterinarian, regarding the necessity of declaring a State of Calamity. Dr. Siñel responded that there is sufficient data to support the declaration, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Mr. Galo I. Ibardolaza, representing the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), explained that the ASF outbreak aligns with criteria D, E, and F of the Revised Guidelines for the Declaration of a State of Calamity, as issued by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.
In an effort to contain the further spread of the virus, Dr. Siñel expressed her personal opinion that all municipalities should implement a complete ban on the movement of pigs in and out of their jurisdictions. She also recommended that local communities focus on "own production for own consumption," encouraging self-sufficiency in pig farming.
Regarding the safety of ASF-affected livestock for human consumption, Dr. Siñel reiterated the official stance of the OPVET. While it is technically safe for humans to consume ASF-infected pork, the OPVET strongly advises against the consumption of pigs infected with the ASF virus.
With the declaration of a State of Calamity, the Provincial Government of Aklan aims to mobilize resources and allocate funds efficiently to address the ASF outbreak. This measure will allow for the rapid implementation of preventive and mitigating measures to protect the local swine industry and the livelihoods of affected farmers.
The provincial government urges all residents and stakeholders to cooperate and support the efforts in containing the ASF outbreak. It is crucial to strictly adhere to the guidelines and protocols provided by the OPVET and other concerned authorities to minimize the impact of the disease on the province's agricultural sector and ensure the safety and well-being of its residents.
ASF cases have been reported in seven municipalities across the province. The affected areas include Balete, Tangalan, Makato, Numancia, Kalibo, Batan, and New Washington. African Swine Fever is a contagious and fatal disease caused by a virus that affects pigs of all ages. Unfortunately, no vaccine is currently available to combat the ASF virus.
During the session, Vice Governor Quimpo sought clarification from Dr. Ma. Cyrosa Leen Mabel C. Siñel, the Provincial Veterinarian, regarding the necessity of declaring a State of Calamity. Dr. Siñel responded that there is sufficient data to support the declaration, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Mr. Galo I. Ibardolaza, representing the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), explained that the ASF outbreak aligns with criteria D, E, and F of the Revised Guidelines for the Declaration of a State of Calamity, as issued by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.
In an effort to contain the further spread of the virus, Dr. Siñel expressed her personal opinion that all municipalities should implement a complete ban on the movement of pigs in and out of their jurisdictions. She also recommended that local communities focus on "own production for own consumption," encouraging self-sufficiency in pig farming.
Regarding the safety of ASF-affected livestock for human consumption, Dr. Siñel reiterated the official stance of the OPVET. While it is technically safe for humans to consume ASF-infected pork, the OPVET strongly advises against the consumption of pigs infected with the ASF virus.
With the declaration of a State of Calamity, the Provincial Government of Aklan aims to mobilize resources and allocate funds efficiently to address the ASF outbreak. This measure will allow for the rapid implementation of preventive and mitigating measures to protect the local swine industry and the livelihoods of affected farmers.
The provincial government urges all residents and stakeholders to cooperate and support the efforts in containing the ASF outbreak. It is crucial to strictly adhere to the guidelines and protocols provided by the OPVET and other concerned authorities to minimize the impact of the disease on the province's agricultural sector and ensure the safety and well-being of its residents.
May 20, 2023
