Despite the developments of vaccines against animal viral diseases, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. said there is still danger and the government must look out for it.
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. (Noel Pabalate)
Speaking at the opening of the Livestock Philippines 2023 on Wednesday, July 5, Marcos stressed the need to detect and prevent the spread of animal diseases such as African swine fever (ASF) and avian influenza.
He announced the completion of phase one of the safety and efficacy trials for the ASF vaccines, saying the Bureau of Animal Industry has found to produce sufficient antibodies and to be safe for use.
He added that the Philippine Food and Drug Administration "is on track to issue a certificate of product registration for these vaccines while phase two trials are underway."
The chief executive, who is also the current Agriculture secretary, said that the government is making progress in procuring Avian Influenza vaccines.
He, however, reminded the government to not be complacent over the availability of the vaccines.
"This gives us great hope as we have been waiting for this for a very long time. However, it is not a reason for complacency as we are being continuously warned by those who have studied the vaccine. The vaccine is 80 percent effective. There is still a 20 percent that we need to look out for very carefully," Marcos said.
"But nonetheless, there is still a danger and it is something that we need to look out for," he added.
The President acknowledged that "there is much work to do," urging the Department of Agriculture to continue to forge partnerships with the academe and private sector to devise solutions to eradicate these diseases that continue to wreak havoc on the country's livestock and poultry subsectors.
"I also urge all concerned government agencies and stakeholders to engage in productive dialogue and share our best ideas, practices, and technologies to advance our poultry and livestock industries," Marcos said.
"Rest assured that the government stands firm with you in overcoming our present challenges by implementing data and science-based policies and programs," he added.
Marcos also renewed his commitment to find ways to increase Filipino farmers’ incomes "so that they can lead a dignified and comfortable life and return to the profession a sense of pride that has been lost over the years."
He likewise encouraged all stakeholders to make the most of the knowledge and tools made available at the trade fair to establish a more food-secure, sustainable, and resilient Philippines.
Livestock Philippines 2023 is an international trade fair for innovative production and processing of poultry and livestock.
It was organized by Informa Markets, a leading global events and exhibitions company specializing in organizing trade shows like Livestock Philippines. The three-day event brought together 300 local and international exhibitors from over 20 countries.
Through Livestock Philippines 2023, Informa Markets aims to support the development of livestock industry in the Philippines, promote best practices, highlight technological advancements and facilitate trade opportunities.