Photo credit: DA

In a bid to curb the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF), the Department of Agriculture (DA) has ramped up checkpoints both inside and outside Metro Manila. This move comes in response to alarming numbers: the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) has intercepted 188 pigs suspected of having ASF. These pigs were being smuggled into the city but were successfully stopped in Quezon City (QC).

Additionally, the BAI has also apprehended 153 more pigs, which are currently undergoing blood tests to determine their health status. To tackle the situation more effectively, the DA is focusing on clustering pig farms in Lobo, Batangas, to implement control vaccinations and contain the outbreak.

In QC, the local government has set up a special site for burying pigs infected with ASF. Authorities have discovered over 200 pigs being illegally raised in the city, which is against local regulations. Mayor Joy Belmonte is urging residents to come forward and report any pig farms they might be operating. “We’re calling on everyone to self-report. We will provide compensation for their cooperation,” Mayor Belmonte said.

This proactive approach is crucial to controlling the ASF outbreak and protecting the local pig farming industry.