AUMENTADO (FB)
The provincial government of Bohol is not letting up in its fight against African Swine Fever (ASF), a highly contagious viral disease that continues to threaten the country’s hog industry.
The Office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OPV) recently partnered with the Municipal Agriculture Office of Valencia town, Bohol in an ASF advocacy campaign that brought together barangay leaders and grassroots volunteers, including barangay captains, agriculture committee kagawads, barangay livestock aides (BALA), barangay health workers (BHW), and barangay tanods from all 35 barangays of Valencia.
During the forum, Dr. Alden Glenn Cutamora discussed the danger of ASF and also talked about proper biosecurity practices.
Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Meydallyn Paman stressed the urgent need for vigilance, noting that ASF has no available vaccine or cure. She emphasized that biosecurity remains the most effective defense, describing it as both cost-efficient and dependable in protecting hogs from the disease.
ASF continues to pose serious risks in Bohol. The OPV has identified hotspot areas in Catigbian, Candijay, Valencia, Mabini, Maribojoc, Alicia, and Ubay. From November 2024 to June 2025, 6,043 hogs from 1,636 households were depopulated as part of containment measures.
The OPV urged hog raisers and residents to immediately report any suspected ASF cases for proper testing and blood sampling, underscoring that early detection is crucial in containing the outbreak.
Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado has prioritized programs that boost food security and protect farmers’ livelihoods.