By: Nycel Jane Dela
The Capiz Provincial Government has intensified efforts to contain the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF) following the confirmation of additional cases in several municipalities and renewed its call for hog raisers to immediately report suspected infections.
During a press briefing on June 29, Dr. Leonel P. Abordo, consultant of the Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO), said ASF was officially confirmed in the province on June 18 based on laboratory results from samples collected on June 11.
The initial confirmed cases were recorded in Panay, Panitan, and Roxas City. Additional positive cases have since been detected in Maayon and another barangay in Panay. The most serious situation was reported in Barangay Binuntucan, Pontevedra, where 9 out of 10 collected samples tested positive.
Provincial officials urged hog raisers to cooperate by reporting suspected ASF cases instead of concealing them.
“Gusto natun e-emphasize ang role sang atun diri mga hog raisers… Kon may indication na sang ASF sa ila mga alaga, indi na tani nila tagu-taguon, kundi e report na dayon,” said Atty. Luvim D. Amores, Human Resource Management Officer of the Capiz Provincial Government.
As concurrent public officer, Amores emphasized that prompt reporting allows authorities to immediately collect samples, dispose of infected animals, and implement control measures. She also reminded the public that there is still no available vaccine against ASF.
To prevent further spread, the Provincial Veterinary Office continues to enforce border inspections in coordination with local government units. Municipalities have also established checkpoints at entry and exit points to monitor the movement of pigs.
The intensified response follows Executive Order No. 21, Series of 2026, issued by Governor Fredenil H. Castro, banning the entry into Capiz of live pigs, pork, pork products, and related commodities originating from or passing through ASF-positive areas, particularly Negros Island and Iloilo Province. The order took effect immediately.
