MANILA — The Department of Agriculture (DA) announced that it will press charges against traders involved in the transportation and sale of African swine fever (ASF)-infected hogs, following recent interceptions at various checkpoints around Metro Manila and neighboring provinces.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) is finalizing the necessary documents to prosecute traders who attempted to circumvent regulations using incomplete or fraudulent documentation. De Mesa emphasized the government’s resolve to end the illicit practices that jeopardize both public health and the pork industry. He stated, “If the government is determined, their livelihood will end. And eventually, they are identified, because of the documents. We will go after them without letup.”
The BAI checkpoints across Luzon have been particularly effective, intercepting 18 shipments that led to the condemnation of 430 ASF-infected hogs and the emergency slaughter of 46 more. The efforts form part of the DA’s rigorous first and second border controls, in collaboration with local government units, to stem the spread of ASF, especially towards Northern Luzon, a major pork supply region for Metro Manila.
De Mesa also highlighted the strategic positioning of checkpoints that have managed to catch several shipments that slipped through initial screenings, underlining the vigilance in protecting the capital’s food supply. Traders found in violation face charges under Republic Act 10611, or the Food Safety Act of 2013.
Amid concerns over pork supply due to ASF, De Mesa reassured the public of stable pork availability and prices in the upcoming months, supported by the DA’s PHP 2 billion repopulation program and pork imports. As of the end of June, the Philippines has imported over 316.99 million kilograms of pork, helping stabilize prices despite ongoing ASF concerns.
DA Assistant Secretary for Swine and Poultry Constante Palabrica indicated that pork prices are expected to remain stable, noting a shift in consumer preference that has inadvertently boosted chicken prices.