The provincial government of Bohol has intensified its efforts to prevent the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF) after a recent outbreak was reported in several towns.
Governor Aris Aumentado has issued an executive order declaring a state of emergency in the affected areas and establishing a quarantine zone to contain the outbreak.
The move comes after the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian confirmed the presence of the ASF virus in Carmen, Bohol on 29 December 2024, following the detection of the virus in six samples taken from hogs raised in the affected barangay.
A 100-metre radius quarantine zone has been set up around the affected area, with all hogs within the zone subject to culling to prevent the spread of the virus.
The transport of pork and pork products has also been restricted, while hogs within a 300-metre radius of the index case will be tested for the virus.
The government has also implemented strict protocols, including the use of foot mats and other disinfection methods, to prevent the spread of the disease.
The outbreak has raised worries about the potential impact on Bohol’s billion-peso hog industry, as well as food security in Central Visayas.