November 22, 2024

 

Philippines' Department of Agriculture strengthens animal disease checkpoints in Metro Manila

The Philippines' Department of Agriculture (DA) has ordered an expansion of inspection checkpoints in Metro Manila and neighbouring provinces to prevent the spread of animal diseases, including African swine fever (ASF) and avian influenza (AI).

 

"These inspection sites should serve as a defensive wall against the spread of animal diseases that threaten not only the local livestock and poultry industries but also public health and food security," said DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr in a statement.

 

DA Assistant Secretary Arnel De Mesa highlighted the significance of Metro Manila in controlling the movement of livestock. He explained that these measures are not only meant to ensure a stable supply during the holiday season but also to curb the spread of diseases as hogs and poultry traverse the capital.

 

"Metro Manila is a very important location to check the entry and exit of hogs and prevent the spread of transboundary diseases," De Mesa stated, noting plans to establish additional inspection stations.

 

From the 11,250 shipments inspected across 14 sites in Metro Manila and nearby provinces as of November 5, authorities apprehended 532 for non-compliance.

 

The Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) will also evaluate the effectiveness of current quarantine points and identify gaps to strengthen measures against ASF and AI.

 

"Given the severe economic impact on the livestock and poultry industries of bird flu, ASF, and other diseases, it's crucial to implement stringent disease management protocols and strategies to control their spread," Tiu Laurel said.

 

In addition to checkpoints, the DA has intensified government-controlled vaccinations among ASF-negative hogs in areas such as Batangas, Bulacan, Tarlac, Pampanga, and Laguna. These vaccinations use AVAC live vaccines as part of the efforts to contain the spread of ASF.

 

As of November 8, the BAI reported that 465 barangays across the Cordillera Administrative Region, Ilocos, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol, and Soccsksargen remain classified as red zones, indicating active ASF cases.

 

For avian influenza, only one barangay in San Luis, Pampanga has an active case nationwide, as of November 15.

 

-      Philippine News Agency