THE Iloilo City government through the City Veterinary Office, Office of the City Agriculturist, Local Economic Enterprise Office, and City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office met with Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committees to discuss the African swine fever (ASF) situation.

The city's current initiatives along with measures to be undertaken by villages were highlighted during the meeting to ensure that Iloilo City will remain ASF-free.

Mayor Jerry Treñas has ordered strong border control and checkpoints to monitor the movement of live pigs, pork and meat products entering the metro.

This is to maximize the implementation of Executive Order 84-2022 issued October 15 titled 'Prohibiting the Slaughter and Entry into the City of Iloilo of all Live Hogs, Boar Semen, Pork and Pork-related Products including Livestock Transport Vehicles from the Municipality of Oton Effective Immediately Until Otherwise Lifted.'

ASF cases have been also reported in other neighboring towns including San Miguel, Alimodian, Sta. Barbara and Leganes.

City agriculturist Iñigo Garingalao stressed that the fight against ASF should be at the village level and there is a need to strengthen community efforts to prevent its spread in the locality.

City veterinarian Dr. Tomas Forteza enjoined village leaders to collaborate with the city government to make Iloilo City ASF-free by reporting cases and updating the City Veterinary Office regarding the situation of hog raisers.

City Slaughterhouse Officer in Charge Ruby Firmeza emphasized the importance of checking the Meat Inspection Certificate when buying pork products and by following the protocols provided by authorities.

Veterinarian Dr. Suzette Leal reminded villages that they are partners of the city government in putting an end to the ASF.