ILOILO City – In a major development for the local poultry industry, the Department of Agriculture (DA) has declared Western Visayas free from avian influenza, paving the way for faster and less burdensome transport of poultry products within the region.
Following the reinstatement of Capiz’s avian influenza-free status, the DA’s Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) issued a memorandum waiving the requirement for per-shipment testing of live poultry, bird species, eggs, and related products originating from Region 6 — except for live ducks — for local movement until July 15, 2025.
The exemption was formalized through Memorandum Circular No. 12, Series of 2025, signed by BAI officer-in-charge Christian Daquigan on May 5. The move is based on comprehensive surveillance results from the DA Region 6, which showed negative test results for influenza type A virus in high-risk areas across the provinces of Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, and Negros Occidental.
The DA noted that the previous Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) case in Capiz — reported on December 2, 2022 — was resolved, and the province regained its bird flu-free status as of July 4, 2023.
“This declaration is a testament to the region’s strong biosecurity practices, vigilant monitoring, and proactive collaboration among stakeholders,” the DA-6 said in a statement. “It paves the way for faster trade, reduced logistical burdens, and greater confidence in the health and safety of Western Visayas’ poultry sector.”
Although testing requirements have been relaxed, all backyard and commercial farms must still comply with the documentary requirements outlined in DA Administrative Order No. 5, Series of 2019, which governs the local shipment of animals and related products.
Provincial Veterinary Offices (PVOs) in Region 6 are also required to submit monthly HPAI-negative monitoring data via email. These reports will serve as formal attestation that no bird flu cases — confirmed or suspected — have occurred in their respective localities for the period covered.
The DA emphasized that surveillance test results will remain valid for six months from the date of sample collection and will form the basis for the issuance of Veterinary Health Certificates for farms in the region.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all Local Government Units (LGUs), poultry raisers, industry partners, and frontline personnel for their unwavering support and commitment to keeping our region bird flu-free,” the DA-6 added./PN
