ODIONGAN, Romblon (PIA) -- In a recent interview with PIA Romblon, Mayor Trina Firmalo-Fabic announced the successful control of African Swine Fever (ASF) cases affecting pigs in Odiongan town, Romblon.

Mayor Firmalo-Fabic revealed that depopulation measures were implemented in three barangays affected by ASF. The Provincial Veterinary Office reported the first ASF case in Progreso Weste in November of the previous year, followed by positive cases in Panique and Tuburan.

"The good thing is, after we called for the culling of pigs in Panique and Tuburan, we haven't recorded any new cases. This means we have contained it," according to Fabic.

To support affected farmers, the local government disbursed more than P700,000 in funds to compensate pig owners affected by ASF or those involved in the depopulation process. Additionally, various national government agencies, including the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation and the Department of Social Welfare and Development, extended aid to impacted hog raisers.

Mayor Fabic emphasized that the Municipal Agriculture Office continues its efforts to elevate the city's status from an ASF-infected zone (red zone) to a buffer zone (pink zone) and ultimately an ASF-free zone (green zone).

"Random blood testing of hogs will be conducted next month to determine if ASF is still present and to assess our current status," the mayor added.

She also said that it's crucial to declare Odiongan an ASF-free zone to resume pig exports to other towns. (PJF/PIA Mimaropa - Romblon)