July 2, 2024
Negros Occidental, Philippines begins swine distribution to recover hog population
The provincial government of Negros Occidental, Philippines, has initiated the distribution of locally produced breeder swine to repopulate herds after significant losses due to transboundary animal diseases over the past year, Philippine News Agency reported.
The swine dispersal marks the first distribution since the massive swine deaths in 2023 that affected nearly 18,000 swine across 20 local government units in the province.
Data from the Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) revealed that seven groups of beneficiaries received a total of 10 boars and gilts under the Provincial Swine Industry Recovery Initiatives and Animal Genetic Improvement and Livelihood Programme.
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson acknowledged the efforts of the PVO in collaborating with swine raisers to help the local hog industry recover.
The governor said they encourage the use of artificial insemination. Previously, they used commercial or traveling boar, which was one of the reasons African swine fever (ASF) virus spread.
The PVO advocates for the adoption of artificial insemination in swine breeding to produce healthy swine and minimise the risk of transboundary animal diseases.
Dr Ryan Janoya, Officer-in-Charge of the PVO, noted that this is the first time the provincial government has dispersed breeder pigs produced by the Swine Breeding Farm at the Negros First Ranch in Santa Rosa, Murcia.
"This is a significant occasion for the swine industry. This is the first swine dispersal activity since the transboundary animal disease outbreak experienced by the province. This is also the first dispersal from the swine breeding project," he added.
Janoya urged swine raisers to remain vigilant and continue practicing biosecurity measures to ensure a full recovery of the swine industry.
- Philippine News Agency
