May 3, 2024
Iloilo, Philippines launches programme to boost swine inventory amid ASF concerns
The provincial government of Iloilo, Philippines, is set to enhance the swine inventory across its 15 municipalities through the implementation of its sentinelling programme, expected to commence soon and benefit 1,139 farmers, Philippine News Agency reported.
Dr Darel Tabuada, provincial veterinarian, said that almost 90% of the initial list submitted by the local government units has met the program's guidelines, particularly in Oton, where the first case of African swine fever (ASF) was detected last year.
With an allocation of PHP 13.67 million (US$237,000), the provincial government aims to kickstart the sentinelling programme, with funds to be disbursed to LGUs upon finalising the list of farmers and signing an agreement for implementation.
The initiative, spearheaded by Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor, ensures proactive measures amidst uncertainties regarding the Philippines' Department of Agriculture's timeline for a similar programme.
Under the provincial version, eligible farmers will receive two piglets each, purchased by their LGUs using allocated funds.
Once the Philippines' Department of Agriculture initiates its version, the provincial government will align its efforts and submit its list accordingly.
Tabuada emphasised the significance of the sentinelling programme in bolstering the swine inventory, contributing to the province's efforts to revive the swine industry.
During the second-quarter meeting of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, Tabuada reported an increase in the hog inventory, reaching 83,465 heads as of April 22, marking a 15% rise since February 2024.
He highlighted the programme's impact, attributing a significant portion of the increase to its implementation, which accounts for approximately 2,000 additional heads.
Despite challenges posed by ASF concerns, Iloilo maintained a pork sufficiency level of 70% from January to April 2024, inclusive of frozen and processed pork imports.
- Philippine News Agency
