July 15, 2020

African swine fever hits three villages in North Cotabato, Philippines

African swine fever (ASF) have been reported in at least three villages in North Cotabato, the Philippines.

The Department of Agriculture in the Soccsksargen Region (Region 12), south-central Mindanao, confirmed the cases.

DA-12 regional director Arlan Mangelen identified Barangays Magkaalam, Ilian, and Binay -- all in Magpet, North Cotabato -- as the affected areas.

Mangelen said authorities are prepared to cull pigs in these villages, including those located within a one-kilometer radius.

Several backyard hog raisers in Magpet have began to slaughter their pigs for fear of not being able to sell pork products in the local markets, based on reports received by DA-12. Mangelen advised against such actions as authorities can take charge of culling and pay producers based on the prevailing market prices.

In Kidapawan City, city veterinarian Dr. Eugene Gornez said his office has already implemented ASF-monitoring checkpoints placed along the boundary of Kidapawan-Magpet, and Kidapawan-President Roxas, as well as all possible routes where ASF virus transmission could take place.

Gornez said that if they fail to stop the spread of ASF in the city, it can affect at least 10,000 pigs raised by backyard livestock farmers.

- Manila Bulletin