November 14, 2025

 

New ASF guidelines introduced by Philippines' agriculture department

 

 

The Philippines' Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary, Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., has issued new guidelines strengthening the country' defenses against African swine fever (ASF) while ensuring the safe importation of swine and pork products.

 

The new rules, outlined in Administrative Circular No. 12, initiate ASF regionalisation by recognising ASF-free zones within accredited exporting countries in line with World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) standards.

 

"The government has been actively working to recover from ASF through a national zoning and movement plan, identifying areas already disease-free," Tin Laurel said.

 

"This highlights the importance of science-based monitoring, regionalisation for ASF freedom, and adherence to WOAH guidelines for safe swine trade."

 

Only countries accredited by the DA may apply for ASF regionalisation recognition. Their Competent Veterinary Authority should submit detailed reports on ASF surveillance control measures and the boundaries of ASF-free regions.

 

The Bureau of Animal Industry's (BAI) risk import assessment team will conduct a 6-month technical review to verify compliance with DA and international standards.

 

Approved applications will lead to a draft ASF regionalisation agreement on animal health requirements import terms and conditions and a veterinary health certificate template.

 

Bilateral recognition will take effect once both countries' chief veterinary officers sign the agreement and the DA issues a memorandum order.

 

Under the circular, only commodities covered by the DA's existing export accreditation are eligible. Exporting countries should also submit annual ASF status reports detailing surveillance monitoring and control efforts.

 

Live swine should show no clinical signs of ASF, originate from ASF-free regions and avoid restricted zones during transport. Swine products must come from ASF-free areas, be transported directly to approved slaughterhouses in sealed vehicles and undergo favorable ante and post-mortem inspections consistent with WOAH standards.

 

The circular will be reviewed after two years to ensure continued relevance and effectiveness. Any prior rules inconsistent with the new order are repealed or amended accordingly.

 

- Manila Standard