Duterte OKs use of P1B fund to address swine fever outbreak

MANILA, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte has approved the use of the P1 billion contingent fund of his office to address the African swine fever outbreak in the Philippines.

“To address the issue on African swine fever, the Chief Executive approved Agriculture Secretary William Dar’s request to use the remaining contingent fund of the Office of the President for the indemnification of hog raisers, and designate cold storage areas in the Ports of Manila, Subic, Batangas, Cebu and Davao for 100% monitoring of meat products entry,” Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.

In a text message, Agriculture Secretary William Dar said the contingency fund is at P1 billion.