August 28, 2024

Pork vendors in the Philippines promise ASF-free pork ahead of holiday season

Vendors of "lechon" (roasted pork) in La Loma, Quezon city, Philippines, have assured customers that their pork products are free from African swine fever (ASF), Philippine News Agency reported.

This statement comes as they commend the government's ongoing efforts to control the resurgence of the disease.

Ramon Ferreros, founder of the La Loma Lechoneros Association, said that national and local veterinary offices are closely monitoring the ASF situation. He highlighted the strict guidelines in place to ensure that only safe pork and its by-products reach consumers.

"Before delivery, shipping permits and certifications from provincial veterinary offices are secured. Upon arrival in Quezon City, inspectors from the Department of Agriculture (DA), Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), and Quezon City Veterinary Department conduct thorough checks," Ferreros said.

Ferreros noted that the absence of valid and complete certification results in immediate confiscation of the products by regulatory agencies.

He also confirmed that no swine infected with ASF from Batangas, Marinduque, Mindoro, and Quezon provinces are allowed entry into Quezon City. Ferreros advised the public that pigs with ASF can be identified by red spots on the skin that turn black when cooked, making it easier for buyers to recognise unsafe pork.

"All lechon sellers in La Loma offer pork that is in good condition," Ferreros assured. "I can confidently say that La Loma is ASF-free. The roasteries here undergo strict inspections by the city veterinary department and the National Meat Inspection Service, in addition to the checkpoints conducted by the DA and BAI during transportation from the provinces."

-      Philippine News Agency