Region 6 and 7 Further Protects Hog Industry

Western (Region 6) and Central Visayas (Region 7) continue to strengthen their preventive measures in a bid to prevent the entry of the African Swine Flu (ASF) in the regions.

These preventive measures come as ASF started to hit places in the Philippines, with Region 6 and 7 still relatively safe from the virus.

Atty. Salvador Diputado, regional executive director of the Department of Agriculture region 7 (DA)-7 said that LGUs and agencies concerned are coordinating to prevent the entry of ASF in regions 6 and 7.

“We are actively coordinating our efforts with the local government units (LGUs) to ensure there is no letting up in our efforts to make sure the ASF won’t enter our region,” Diputado said.

He further added that barangay-based quick reaction teams must be formed by city, municipal and provincial governments to make the preventive measures more effective.

DA-7 also ordered hog raisers to make a database for them to track and monitor their hogs, along with the prohibition of the entry of live hogs in the said regions.

In region 7, Cebu City already took action as Mayor Edgar Labella recently issued an Executive Order that further strengthens the fight against ASF.

In Western Visayas, provinces have also tightened the entry of live hogs from other regions.

Engr. Remelyn Recoter, regional executive director of DA in Region 6, stressed the need to protect the P20-billion swine industry in the region.

She said they have also launched an information drive that discourages individuals from buying pork products online. (MLC)