ASF hits 3 barangays in Panglao

MANILA, Philippines — The Bohol Provincial Inter-Agency African swine fever (ASF) Task Force has banned the entry of hogs, pork and its by-products from Panglao to the main island of the province.

The ban, which was implemented starting yesterday, was provided under an executive order (EO) issued by Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado after 100 swine deaths due to ASF were recorded in Dauis town.

The Office of the Provincial Veterinarian said “multiple illnesses and deaths” of hogs were recorded in Purok 5 in Barangay Mayacabac, Purok 1 in Barangay Mariveles and Purok 4 in Barangay Biking.

Under the EO, all motorists going to Panglao are required to present ASF passes.

Aumentado said law enforcers were directed to implement traffic and border measures around the clock to contain the spread of ASF.

He said the provincial government remains committed to protecting the P6-billion livestock and poultry industry in the province.

Ninety percent of the livestock industry in Bohol are backyard hog raisers.

Bohol was among the provinces declared free of the swine disease early this year.

Last year, a 60-day ban on the entry of hogs, pork and its by-products from Bohol was implemented in Cebu province after ASF was detected in Pilar town.