August 12, 2024

 

Pork supply sufficient despite ASF outbreaks in Batangas, Philippines, according to agriculture department

 

The Philippine's Department of Agriculture (DA) has given assurance that pork supply is adequate amid fresh outbreaks of African swine fever (ASF) in four areas in Batangas.

 

At a press briefing early this month, DA Assistant Secretary and spokesman Arnel de Mesa said efforts are being done by concerned local government units (LGUs) to contain the outbreak and prevent the spread of ASF to other LGUs.

 

"There are four towns in Batangas that reported ASF outbreaks, including Lobo and Lipa… two other (municipalities) that also recorded new cases," De Mesa told journalists. He blamed the new ASF cases in Batangas on heavy rains and floods spawned by Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon.

 

"We previously declared Lipa as free from ASF," he said.

 

De Mesa added that outbreaks would continue as the country still lacks the vaccine that could control or eradicate the disease.

 

"Water is a primary vector of the virus. Flood can spread ASF. It was proven so many times, especially during flooding in Central Luzon," he said.

 

Movement of hogs also contributes to the spread of ASF.

 

"Biosecurity (measure) is important as the movement of traders also causes (the outbreak of ASF). Unless we have an effective vaccine, the problem will persist," he said.

 

De Mesa nited that the outbreaks in Batangas were not expected to affect the supply of pork in Metro Manila as Central Luzon remains as the principal pork producer and supplier. He said retail prices of pork in Metro Manila remain stable.

 

- Philstar