Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. asked the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) to establish livestock, poultry and meat inspection sites in Metro Manila and nearby regions to curb the spread of animal diseases.
Under Administrative Circular No. 10, BAI’s National Veterinary Quarantine Services Division, in partnership with local government units, was tasked to set up quarantine checkpoints to detect diseases such as African Swine Fever (ASF) and avian influenza.
“These inspection sites will serve as critical barriers to prevent the spread of animal diseases that pose threats not only to the livestock and poultry sectors but also to public health and food security,” Tiu Laurel said.
ASF, which devastated the hog industry in 2019, recently resurfaced in Region IV-A, with outbreaks in other previously affected areas also being reported.
Meanwhile, cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza remain a significant threat to the poultry sector.
Both diseases had catastrophic impact on the livestock and poultry industries, resulting in millions of animals culled, billions in lost revenue, disrupted investments and widespread job losses.
Tiu Laurel said the said sectors are essential contributors to the country’s agricultural output.
BAI was also tasked to identify and address gaps in quarantine measures to strengthen border controls and improve disease prevention protocols.
“Considering the immense economic toll caused by ASF, avian influenza, and other animal diseases, it is imperative to enforce robust disease management strategies to safeguard the livestock and poultry industries,” he said.
