BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya (October 19, 2023)—Governor Jose “Jing” Gambito said hog raisers would receive P5,000 per head for culled hogs amid the declaration of a state of calamity by the provincial government due to the outbreak of African swine fever (ASF) affecting at least nine towns in the province.
On Monday, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan approved a resolution submitted by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) recommending the declaration of a state of calamity in the province following the outbreak of ASF affecting hog raisers.
“The provincial government remains committed to protecting the livelihoods of hog raisers and ensuring the safety and stability of the agricultural sector,” Gambito said.
Also the PDRRMC chair, Gambito said the provincial government could use its calamity fund “to help hundreds of hog farm owners affected by the swine disease in the province.”
As of October 13, the provincial veterinary office headed by Dr. Christopher Seraspi has recorded Asf cases in the towns of Bambang, Dupax del Norte, Bayombong, Bagabag, Kayapa, Kasibu, Diadi, Solano and Quezon.
Seraspi said at least 1,290 pigs in 133 hog farms were found positive for Asf, 1,010 pigs were culled, 280 deaths were reported while undetermined number of unreported pigs have not been tested.
“The total loss of the hog industry was estimated at P20 million with 42 barangays affected,” he said.
In Cagayan province, new Asf cases were also detected in some villages with reported hog deaths recorded in Barangay Malalinta in Tuao town, Barangay Nangalisan in Solana town and Barangay Roma in Enrile town.
The Cagayan Provincial Veterinary Office surveillance team said it has already dispatched its personnel to assist in implementing biosecurity and control measures to prevent the spread of swine diseases.
In Isabela province, Asf cases continue to rise in the towns of Angadanan, Aurora, Alicia, Echague, Luna, Mallig, Quirino, San Isidro, Gamu, Ramon, Roxas, Burgos and Cabagan.
The Isabela provincial veterinary office also ordered the setting up of checkpoints in every municipality to monitor the entry and exit of hogs and pork products. LEIF DAHL