The Provincial Government of Davao de Oro has tightened its security measures to ensure that the African swine fever (ASF) will not reach the province’s borders.
Speaking at the Kapehan sa PIA media forum held at The Royal Mandaya Hotel, Davao de Oro Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy told reporters that they have already set up foot baths and tire baths as part of their prevention measures.
“We have six identified entry and exit points (in the province) and we have installed foot baths and tire baths on them,” he said.
The biosanitary measures will help disinfect individuals and vehicles when entering and exiting the province. In addition, they also intensified inspections on meat products at checkpoints and known drop-off points.
Uy said that Davao de Oro also has many hog raisers (backyard and commercial) whose livelihoods will be threatened by the ASF.
But the governor clarified that there is no lockdown in Davao de Oro.
Before individuals or transporters are required to present the necessary permits before they could bring meat products (and) or pork products in the province.
(Pork) meat carriers/transporters must acquire certifications coming from the veterinary offices (from the city/area they are from) and a certification from the National Meat Inspection Services (NMIS), as well.
These certificates will serve as a proof that the meat have been inspected and declared safe and free from any contamination.
“That is one of the initiative to protect the welfare (of the public). To protect our food security and to protect our economy inside Davao de Oro,” Governor Uy added.
The governor bared that there are around 25,000 heads of live hogs in Davao de Oro, based on the latest estimate provided by the veterinarian’s office.
The ASF infestation has affected the province of Davao Occidental with 12,562 hogs depopulated, and Davao City with 4,394 hogs culled. The local government units in Davao region have already implemented “1-7-10” protocol to contain the spread of ASF.
