In response to reports claiming the Bacolod City government wished to “harmonize efforts” in the fight against African swine fever, Negros Occidental Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer yesterday called on city officials to support the provincial government’s ordinance banning the entry of pork and pork products.
In a press conference earlier this week, city officials said they planned to make contact with provincial officials in order for their respective task forces to coordinate efforts.
Last month, the Provincial Board passed an ordinance permanently banning pigs, pork, and related products from Luzon and countries affected by swine fever.
Provincial veterinarian Renante Decena also said there is a need to protect the swine industry in Negros Occidental.
Ferrer also noted, while the provincial government respects Bacolod City as a “highly-urbanized city,” it is the responsibility of the provincial government to protect local hog producers.
“If the problem is supply, I urged my fellow Negrenses to patronize our local pork products,” the vice governor urged./DGB, WDJ