May 8, 2025

Blood testing for AI not needed for transport of live poultry, eggs in Western Visayas, Philippines

 

Blood testing for avian influenza (AI) is no longer required for the local transport of live poultry, eggs, and related products within Western Visayas, the Philippines, until July 15, 2025, according to a new directive from the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI).

 

Dr. Jonic Natividad, head of the Regulatory Division of the Department of Agriculture-Western Visayas, on May 7, said the waiving of testing was outlined in Memorandum Circular No.12, series of 2025, by the Bureau of Animal Industry issued on May 5, 2025.

 

The decision follows comprehensive surveillance in high-risk areas across the region, all of which yielded negative results for the Influenza Type A virus.

 

"It is an assurance that there is no bird flu virus lingering or crawling within the region. The poultry is a big investment in our region," Natividad said.

 

The exemption applies to local transport of up to five heads of poultry and other bird species.

 

Previously, blood testing was required regardless of quantity.

 

Larger commercial farms must still present certification confirming that their facilities are bird flu-free.

 

The new guidelines aim to ease the movement of poultry and related products —excluding live ducks—within the region, enhancing supply chain efficiency. Ducks and other waterfowl remain subject to testing due to their potential role as asymptomatic virus carriers.

 

Natividad said the continued importance of strong biosecurity practices at the farm level to prevent any possible resurgence.

 

"We should not let our guards down. We should not be complacent. Our number one recommendation is to maintain good biosecurity protocols in the farm," he added.

 

- PNA