Catanduanes bans entry of hogs, pork products from other provinces

LEGAZPI CITY –– The Catanduanes local government has temporarily banned the entry of live pigs and pork products from other provinces as a precautionary measure against African swine fever (ASF).

Acting governor Shirley Abundo said all the live pigs, pork products, fresh and frozen pork that would be transported to the province would be confiscated.

“Since the threat of ASF is just across our borders, there is an urgent need to institute safety measures to protect the general welfare of the populace, especially the livestock industry in the province,” Abundo said in the executive order.

The Department of Agriculture Bicol has confirmed ASF cases in towns of Bombon, Calabanga, and Magarao in Camarines Sur.

Checkpoints were also established in airports, seaports, coastal barangays, and other entry points.

Jerry Beo, head of the provincial disaster risk reduction and management office, said only the products within the province would be consumed in their area.

“As of now, the province has no ASF cases, and to protect (the industry), we will not get live pigs and pork products from outside sources or provinces,” Beo said.

Edited by LZB