9 live pigs intercepted in Oriental Mindoro amid ASF watch

CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro — Nine live pigs reportedly being transported out of Oriental Mindoro to San Jose, Occidental Mindoro, were intercepted at a quarantine checkpoint in Bulalacao as provincial authorities tightened measures against the possible entry of African swine fever (ASF).

The pigs were intercepted on Tuesday, Oct. 6, at the Milagrosa Animal Quarantine Checkpoint in Bulalacao, according to the Oriental Mindoro Provincial Information Office.

Provincial authorities said there is currently no reported ASF case in Oriental Mindoro but warned that the disease could enter and spread through infected animals and contaminated vehicles, equipment, clothing and other materials that come into contact with pigs.

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The shipment was stopped as authorities enforced quarantine measures intended to prevent the entry of ASF into the province.

Based on the incident report, authorities took action after detecting the pigs at the quarantine checkpoint. A violation of the provincial quarantine ordinance is being pursued against those responsible for transporting the animals, according to the provincial government..

The intercepted pigs were subsequently disposed of through burial as part of the province’s biosecurity measures.

Provincial authorities said the measure was intended to prevent the possible reintroduction and spread of ASF in Oriental Mindoro.

ASF is a highly contagious viral disease affecting domestic and wild pigs. It does not infect humans but can cause significant losses to the hog industry. /mr