ZAMBOANGA CITY – Dozens of hogs have died in Lamitan City, Basilan due to African Swine Fever, prompting the city to be placed under the red zone.

A PIGLET infected with African Swine Fever in Lamitan City. (Photo via Liza Jocson)
Lamitan Mayor Oric Furigay said during a press conference on Tuesday, June 4, that 68 hogs have died while 38 backyard swine owners have been affected by the spread of ASF in Lamitan.
Up to nine barangays have been affected by ASF, based on reports by the City Veterinarian and the City Agriculturist.
Barangays seriously affected by ASF were Ipil, Bulingan, Sitio Martha, Luuk, Calugusan, and Bohe Sapa.
The report on affected hogs was based on a study of blood samples from May 28 to 31 this year.
Furigay said that they have requested police and military assistance to monitor the entry of hogs into Lamitan City.
Affected hogs are also expected to undergo culling. Furigay said owners are willing to cooperate with the LGU to eradicate ASF.
Furigay also said the LGU is prepared to assist the affected hog raisers by providing them with piglets.