May 13, 2026
 

Philippines temporarily bans livestock and animal product imports from Greece over foot-and-mouth disease

The restriction covers live swine, cattle, untreated milk and skeletal muscle meat, with tighter inspections ordered at all ports of entry.

The Philippines has suspended imports of livestock and animal products from Greece following confirmed foot-and-mouth disease cases among domestic sheep in Lesvos on 6 April. Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. ordered the immediate ban under Department Circular No. 20, halting the issuance of sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances for affected commodities.

The restriction covers live swine, cattle, untreated milk, skeletal muscle meat and other products considered at risk of carrying the virus. Certain processed goods classified as safe commodities under international standards may still be permitted entry subject to strict conditions.

Shipments already in transit before the circular took effect may still enter the country if the animals were slaughtered or products were produced on or before 28 February and comply with quarantine requirements. Non-compliant shipments will be confiscated or handled in accordance with existing quarantine and importation regulations.

Tiu Laurel said the measure was necessary to prevent transboundary animal diseases from entering the country. "This circular is a critical and proactive step to shield our country from the potentially devastating effects of foot-and-mouth disease. By enforcing a temporary ban and tightening import controls, we aim to protect the health of our livestock, ensure food security and preserve the stability of our agricultural economy," he said.

The agriculture secretary added that the restriction supports a broader directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to strengthen border controls and disease monitoring amid rising global animal health concerns.

The Department of Agriculture said it would continue reviewing the restriction based on developments in Greece and updates from international animal health authorities.

- Daily Tribune