September 6, 2024

 

Negros Occidental, Philippines disperses breeder swine to aid repopulation efforts

The provincial government of Negros Occidental, Philippines, dispersed PHP 370,000 (US$6,600) worth of breeder swine as part of its ongoing efforts to repopulate swine after last year's losses caused by African swine fever (ASF) and other transboundary diseases, Philippine News Agency reported.

 

A total of 10 heads of boar and six heads of gilt were handed over to individual swine famers, associations, and local government units.

 

The turnover ceremony was led by Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson and provincial veterinarian Placeda Lemana at the Provincial Capitol grounds.

 

The breeder swine dispersed were produced at the breeding and technology demonstration farm facility at the Negros First Ranch in Murcia town. This initiative falls under the Provincial Swine Industry Recovery Initiatives.

 

According to the Provincial Veterinary Office, the use of boars promotes artificial insemination as a breeding method, which is seen to accelerate productivity and prevent the spread of diseases such as ASF and hog cholera.

 

In June this year, the provincial government made an initial distribution of 10 locally produced boars and gilts, marking the first time since the widespread swine deaths in 2023, which affected nearly 18,000 swine in 20 local government units across the province.

 

In addition to the breeder swine, the provincial government also dispersed 12 heads of cattle, valued at PHP 216,000; 800 free-range chicks, worth PHP48,000; 48 heads of duck, valued at PHP 24,000; and five heads of sheep, valued at PHP 90,000.

 

These animals were produced at the Provincial Livestock Breeding Centre and Dairy Farm in La Carlota city.

 

-      Philippine News Agency