The island province of Bohol in the Philippines is taking decisive action to protect its USD 87-million pig industry from African swine fever (ASF).
The provincial governor signed an executive order to enforce the Revised Bohol ASF Prevention Ordinance. The ordinance regulates the movement of live hogs, pork products, and livestock transport across the province.
It aligns with national efforts of the Department of Agriculture to increase biosecurity, and livestock consolidation, and vaccination.
Grassroots action and multi-sector coordination
The order mandates inspections of meat processing facilities and sets contingency protocols to contain ASF outbreaks. It also outlines strict guidelines for pig movement, health certification, depopulation, and penalties for violations.
It institutionalizes the Bohol ASF Prevention and Control Program across all levels—from province to barangay. This ensures coordinated action and empowers local communities to respond swiftly to any outbreaks.
A Provincial Executive Committee on ASF will guide policy, approve plans, and oversee technical working groups. Task forces include Quarantine, Surveillance, Quick Response, and Advocacy teams to cover all fronts of disease control.
These teams are tasked with monitoring ports, inspecting cargo vehicles, and verifying transport documents to prevent ASF entry and spread.
Community responders and industry support
Provincial Veterinarian Dr Meydallyn Paman emphasized the need for trained community responders to support surveillance efforts. She noted that the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OPV) lacks sufficient manpower for widespread monitoring.
Barangay teams now handle quarantine duties, reducing OPV personnel exposure. This shift allows faster response and minimizes contamination risks.
The order also calls on shipping lines, airlines and courier services to enforce quarantine and disinfection protocols. These partners play a key role in verifying documents and disseminating ASF prevention information.