BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya (PIA) - The provincial government of Nueva Vizcaya has released P8 million as indemnity to hog raisers who were severely affected by African Swine Fever (ASF). 

The indemnification assistance ranging from P2,500 to P5,000 was given to each of the 158 hog raisers who lost their livelihood due to the disease outbreak in the province.

Nueva Vizcaya has been declared under a state of calamity due to the severe effect of the ASF on the local hog industry, affecting 12 out of 15 municipalities of the province.

Dr. Patricio Moreno, provincial veterinarian, said the recipients were selected from the severely-hit municipalities, particularly Bayombong, Bambang, Solano, Aritao, Dupax del Norte, Dupax del Sur, Sta. Fe, Quezon, Kasibu, Kayapa, Bagabag and Diadi. 

“There will be another batch of beneficiaries for this program. We are currently processing the documentary requirements for them to also receive assistance from the provincial government as they need to restore their livelihood,” he said.

Moreno said the program was rolled out through the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office’s quick response fund.

During the distribution, Gov. Jose Gambito urged hog raisers to strictly observe and follow biosecurity measures in their respective communities to protect the hog industry.

“Let us be united in following biosecurity measures taught to us by the agriculture officials to overcome the severe effects of the ASF. Together, we will rebuild stronger and more resilient agricultural practices,” he said. 

The governor also reiterated his full support to the hog raisers in the province, recognizing their significant contribution to food security and the local economy. (OTB/BME/PIA NVizcaya)