June 16, 2005

Philippine poultry exports surge amid strengthened bird flu defences

Philippine poultry exports to Asia have surged as the country continues to enjoy its bird flu-free status.

The government reports 3.5 million kg of poultry exports so far this year, compared with 1.5 million kg for the whole of 2004. 10 million kg of poultry exports to the region are expected for 2005.

As neighbouring nations like Thailand and Vietnam continue to be stricken with bird flu, the Philippines is keeping up its strong defences against the disease.

Strict bans on poultry imports from affected countries are of vital importance because the Philippines remains the only Asian country with a significant poultry industry not ravaged by bird flu.

The government has released 53 million pesos "to be used as the first line of defence" in ensuring that bird flu does not enter the country.

Facilities would be set up to detect and contain bird flu, the government said.  A system would be established where poultry producers are required to report to the authorities if the stock mortality rate exceeded 3 percent.

In addition, the Philippines is stepping up its confiscation and destruction of smuggled poultry from countries affected by bird flu. Swamplands and watering holes of migratory birds that can carry the virus would be under close surveillance.