November 29, 2024
Solsona, Ilocos Norte, Philippines enforces strict ban on pork products to combat ASF
The municipal government of Solsona, Ilocos Norte, Philippines, has implemented a ban on the entry of pork products and related food items from other towns and provinces to protect the local livestock industry from the threat of African Swine Fever (ASF).
Lawyer Alfonso Jeziel de los Reyes, municipal legal officer and designated information officer of Solsona, confirmed the ban following an emergency meeting of the Municipal African Swine Fever Task Force. The task force, composed of village officials, members of the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, and local meat vendors, agreed to intensify preventive measures.
"Any product derived from pork will be banned entry in Solsona effective today," de los Reyes said. He emphasised the strict enforcement of Municipal Ordinance No. 2021-643, also known as the Omnibus Guidelines on the Implementation of Preventive Measures Against African Swine Fever. This will be supported by existing provincial and national policies.
The town's livestock industry is recovering from a severe ASF outbreak four years ago. Over 1,000 swine, valued at PHP 5.8 million (US$99,000), were culled in 2021, affecting hundreds of local hog raisers. To support those affected, the Ilocos Norte and Solsona municipal governments provided livelihood assistance. Swine raisers also received PHP 5,000 (US$85.35) per swine culled, upon submission of complete documents to the Department of Agriculture's Quick Response Fund, according to Provincial Veterinarian Dr Loida Valenzuela.
The provincial veterinarian also urged swine raisers to adhere to strict biosecurity measures. Farmers were advised against using water from creeks, irrigation canals, or rivers to prevent contamination. Breeders from accredited ASF-free farms and piglets used for the government's sentineling program are exempt from the transport ban.
Dr Valenzuela recommended the use of semen from ASF-free certified farms instead of transporting breeders to minimise risks. She reminded the public of the importance of cooperating with local authorities to safeguard the province from ASF.
Surveillance operations are ongoing across Ilocos Norte, supported by stringent border protocols and quarantine checkpoints. These measures aim to prevent ASF from spreading to hog populations in the region.
- Philippine News Agency