MANABO, Abra – The Department of Agriculture Cordillera (DA-CAR) has provided disinfectants to piggeries in the municipality of Manabo, Abra as part of its support to the said area following the recent cases of African Swine Fever or ASF in the municipality. Dr. Karl Kigis, DA-CAR Focal person for ASF explained that the province is considered as the most-strict local government unit in CAR in the implementation of anti-ASF initiatives in the region.
Due to alarming reports of pig mortalities, the Provincial Veterinary Office conducted disease investigation and laboratory sample collection from Manabo on July 3, 2024. The samples were immediately transported to the Regional Animal Diseases Diagnostic Laboratory in Baguio City.
“Last July 4, 2024, six samples coming from San Juan, Manabo underwent testing which tested positive for African Swine Fever, DA-CAR has provided the municipality with the necessary equipment and technical support to ensure that ASF would not spread in nearby areas,” Kigis said.
Mayor Darell Domasing has issued an executive order temporarily banning the sale and the butchering of pork meat in the municipality to prevent the possible spread of ASF in nearby areas.
“The municipality will have to reapply for a Recognition of Active Surveillance on African Swine Fever or RAS-ASF certification from the Bureau of Animal Industry for the municipality to collaborate with the Provincial government through the Provincial Veterinary Office for the conduct of rigorous testing in the barangays of Manabo,” Kigis added.
This recognition will be the outcome of collaborative efforts between the municipal government of Manabo and the Provincial Veterinary Office of Abra for the conduct of rigorous ASF testing in the barangays of the municipality.
The RAS-ASF is a primary requirement for local government units to identify ASF-safe barangays, aside from acting as a certification permit in the transport of live pigs for meat purposes to other areas. By JTLlanes
