CITY OF CALAPAN, Oriental Mindoro (PIA) — Since the onset of the dreaded African Swine Fever (ASF) in the country late in 2019, Oriental Mindoro, through the strict implementation of guidelines and preventive measures by the Provincial Government, the province has staved off numerous threats from the disease. However, in a shocking turn of events, after three years, the first-ever African Swine Fever (ASF) in the province was recorded on October 9. This devastating virus has already wreaked havoc in various parts of the country, causing massive losses in the swine industry. With the threat of further spread looming, the government has launched a series of countermeasures aimed at containing the disease and protecting the livelihoods of local farmers.
African Swine Fever is a highly contagious viral disease that affects domestic and wild pigs. While it poses no direct threat to human health, it can decimate swine populations and lead to significant economic repercussions.
The virus’s arrival was traced back to a backyard pig farm in the barangays of Danggay and Bagumbayan in Roxas where a group of pigs displayed symptoms consistent with ASF. This discovery prompted immediate action from local authorities, who recognized the need to prevent further spread.
To contain the outbreak, the Provincial Government of Oriental Mindoro (PGOM) implemented strict quarantine measures. Governor Humerlito ‘Bonz’ Dolor made it clear that from October 9 and onwards, check-points in various hot spots will be observed. Said check-points will be established between the municipalities of Roxas and Bongabong, as well as in Roxas and Mansalay.
Gov. Dolor also instructed authorities to halt the importation of pig products via Dangay and Roxas Port. The chief executive also established connection with the Department of Agriculture (DA) Mimaropa through its Regional Director Maria Christine Inting, to aid them in securing tests kits for ASF.
The executive branch will also request the Sangguniang Panlalawigan to place the municipalities of Roxas and Mansalay in a ‘state of calamity’ to ensure that further preventive measures will be strictly observed and followed.
Meanwhile, the local government has urged hog raisers and farmers to report to the nearest municipal agriculture or veterinary if ever their livestock show signs of ASF. (JJGS/PIA MIMAROPA – Oriental Mindoro)
Uppermost photo from MI PLUS Power Hogs page
Oriental Mindoro Governor Bonz Dolor signed the Executive Order No. 66 that prohibits exportation of pig or pork products from the municipalities of Roxas and Mansalay. (Photo from Ace Sapit)
