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In an interview, Valenzuela said surveillance operation is
ongoing within the 300-meter radius of the affected piggery farm at Brgy. Alejo
Malasig in Vintar, Ilocos Norte, as around 300 pigs are needed to be culled to
arrest the further spread of ASF to nearby areas.
Barangay Rayuray in the city of Batac has been tagged recently as
a “red zone area” due to single case of ASF. Fortunately, it was immediately
contained due to the residents’ cooperation with the Bantay ASF Task Force.
“We are encouraging our livestock raisers to observe biosecurity
measures both housing improvement and change in their hog raising practices,”
Valenzuela told the Philippine News Agency on Wednesday.
To minimize damage, farmer-clients are advised to insure their
livestock to protect their source of livelihood.
“Good thing the affected farm [in Vintar] has insured breeders,”
Valenzuela said, adding that insurance guarantees the recovery of investment.
Hogs in areas under red zone due to ASF are restricted for travel
in Ilocos Norte. The entry or exit of processed meat is likewise prohibited. (Leilanie G. Adriano)
