The Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) of Palawan, under the leadership of Governor V. Dennis M. Socrates, is collaborating with the local governments of Cuyo and Magsaysay to investigate a series of puzzling pig deaths on Cocoro Island in the town of Magsaysay. These incidents have occurred over the past week, prompting concerns of a potential African Swine Fever (ASF) outbreak.
Dr. Darius P. Mangcucang, the Officer-in-Charge of the Provincial Veterinary Office, reacted stating, “Upon receiving reports of the suspicious deaths of pigs on Cocoro Island in Magsaysay town, we immediately mobilized a surveillance team to conduct an on-ground investigation. We also took blood samples from the deceased pigs to ascertain the underlying cause of their deaths.”
The response from authorities has been swift and comprehensive. The PVO promptly provided additional supplies of disinfectants and footbaths to the affected areas of Cuyo and Magsaysay. Furthermore, a strategic checkpoint has been established at the boundary of these two municipalities to monitor the movement of animals and enforce stringent biosecurity measures.
To contain the potential spread of the disease, Barangay Cocoro is now under strict quarantine measures, restricting the entry and exit of animals from the area. This is a vital step to prevent the further spread of any potential infection.
As per the latest data, approximately 180 pigs from 65 affected families have succumbed to the mysterious ailment. To determine the nature of the disease, blood samples have been carefully collected and dispatched to the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) for thorough laboratory testing and confirmation of ASF presence.
In response to the situation, both Cuyo and Magsaysay LGUs have taken decisive action.
The Municipal ASF Task Force has been established in both towns, in line with Provincial Ordinance No. 2846, which outlines biosecurity measures known as “Bantay ASF sa Barangay.” As part of these measures, the transportation of live hogs and pork products from external sources into Cuyo and Magsaysay has been prohibited, a directive reinforced by the issuance of Executive Orders from both municipalities.
To further safeguard their local communities and the larger pig farming industry, both towns have taken decisive steps. They have issued Executive Orders that prohibit the transportation and movement of live hogs and pork products from other municipalities into Cuyo and Magsaysay.
Dr. Mangcucang, in a public statement, reiterated the importance of strict adherence to the measures set forth by the Provincial Government. These measures are designed to prevent the potential spread of animal diseases within Palawan.
He also provided a crucial advisory to affected residents, urging them not to engage in slaughtering the pigs for sale on other islands. Instead, the proper disposal and deep burial of the deceased pigs are strongly recommended to prevent the potential spread of the causative agent behind these alarming deaths.
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