June 13, 2025

ASF awareness drive launched in Surigao Sur, Philippines

The Philippine Department of Agriculture in the Caraga Region (DA-13) and the Bureau of Animal Industry-National African Swine Fever Prevention and Program (BAI-NASFPCP)  started a three-day awareness campaign on African swine fever (ASF) in Surigao del Sur province.

Data provided by DA-13 indicates that 20 areas in the Caraga Region are classified as part of the Pink Zone by DA-BAI due to ASF infection, out of 498 such areas nationwide. Pink Zones are defined as areas where ASF has been contained or where eradication efforts are underway, allowing for some movement of livestock under strict protocols.

Of the 20 pink zone areas in the region, seven are identified in Surigao del Sur, four each in the provinces of Agusan del Sur and Dinagat Islands, three in Agusan del Norte, and two in Surigao del Norte.

"The sustained information campaign will target local communities and livestock industry partners in the province," the DA-13 said in a statement. It added that the campaign aims to raise public awareness, educate key stakeholders, and promote proactive measures to prevent the spread of ASF.

The team from BAI-NASFPCP, led by Dr. Princess Sherina Cunanan, met with Regional Executive Director Arlan Mangelen and technical personnel from DA-13 on June 9.

"This three-day engagement underscores the collaborative effort between national and regional agencies to safeguard the swine industry and ensure food security in the region," the DA-13 said.

-      Philippine News Agency