In a decisive move to halt the spread of African swine fever (ASF), the Northern Samar provincial government has enacted stringent controls on the movement of live pigs and pork products across three towns. Governor Edwin Ongchuan signed Executive Order No. 25-02-01 on February 10, 2025, which imposes a month-long restriction in Las Navas, Catubig, and Laoang.
The order also calls for the setup of quarantine checkpoints at the borders of these towns, managed by the Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) with assistance from local agriculture offices, police, and task forces. The reactivation of provincial and municipal ASF task forces aims to bolster enforcement efforts.
Under the new regulations, the transportation of live pigs, as well as fresh, frozen, or processed pork products, is only permissible with comprehensive documentation, including veterinary health certificates and receipts from authorized sellers. Shipments lacking proper documentation but deemed safe for consumption will be sent back to their origin. Conversely, any products showing signs of ASF will be seized and disposed of, with the costs borne by the offenders.
The decision to restrict movement came after a noticeable increase in unusual swine deaths following recent floods. Investigations conducted on January 22-23, 2025, and subsequent tests by the Department of Agriculture confirmed ASF cases in Las Navas on January 24, prompting an urgent meeting with the provincial ASF task force and local agriculturists to devise control strategies.
Governor Ongchuan has called on all stakeholders to adhere to biosecurity measures and cooperate with authorities to safeguard the region’s swine industry from further economic damage. ASF, known for its high contagion and 100 percent mortality rate in pigs, poses a significant threat to the local economy.