ILOILO CITY – The Department of Agriculture (DA) is calling for the reduction of pork importation as many areas in the country are still recovering from the impact of African Swine Fever (ASF).

AGRICULTURE Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. (left) partakes of a ‘lechon’ or roasted pig at the 30th Hog Convention and Trade Exhibits in Iloilo City. (DA-Western Visayas)
“If we could produce more pork, we could reduce our importation. Our goal also embodies the DA’s stride towards abundant agriculture across the first economy,” said DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.
Iloilo City last week hosted the 30th Hog Convention and Trade Exhibits co-organized by the Pork Federations of the Philippines Inc. (PFPI) and the National Federation of Hog Farmers Inc. (NFHFI).
The reduction of pork importation is part of DA’s larger goal in national food security.
“The commitment to excellence in pork production benefits livelihoods and contributes to our nation’s collective well-being and prosperity,” Tiu added.
The Agriculture Secretary also said the DA is set to launch this year the Cold Examination Facilities for Agriculture (CEFA) in eight selected areas across the country.
The CEFA aims “to prevent the smuggling of imported agricultural commodities and the entry of trans-boundary agricultural diseases, ensuring the safety and quality of locally-produced pork.”