CAPIZ — The Provincial Government of Capiz has placed five local government units under intensified monitoring after they were confirmed positive for African Swine Fever (ASF), prompting authorities to strengthen surveillance, biosecurity measures, and rapid response efforts to contain the disease.
Based on confirmed laboratory results from blood samples, the Capiz Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) identified Roxas City and the municipalities of Panay, Panitan, Pontevedra, and Maayon as ASF “red zone” areas.
The PVO, in coordination with the Department of Agriculture (DA), has heightened disease monitoring and containment measures, particularly as changing weather conditions may increase the risk of ASF transmission.
Gov. Fredenil H. Castro stressed the need for close coordination among swine raisers, veterinarians, and local government units to prevent the disease from spreading to other parts of the province.
He said ASF continues to threaten the livelihood of hog raisers and poses a risk to the province’s food security, underscoring the importance of protecting the local livestock industry.
To curb the spread of the disease, the provincial government has adopted a multi-pronged strategy that includes intensified farm inspections and surveillance for the early detection of ASF symptoms.
Authorities have also established rapid response protocols requiring the immediate reporting of suspected cases and coordinated action among veterinarians and local government officials to facilitate prompt containment.
The provincial government is likewise enforcing stricter biosecurity measures in affected areas to reduce the risk of disease transmission among swine populations.
In addition, information and education campaigns will be conducted to raise awareness among farmers and other stakeholders on ASF, its impact, and preventive measures.
Castro reiterated the importance of safeguarding Capiz’s swine industry, describing it as a vital contributor to the province’s economy, and urged all stakeholders to remain vigilant and work together to prevent further outbreaks./PN
