Authorities are conducting tests on blood samples of hogs in Negros Oriental towns and cities following the outbreak of African swine fever (ASF) in Valencia recently.

Alejandro Rafal, head of the Department of Agriculture-Provincial Agriculture Technology Coordinating Office told the Philippine News Agency on Monday, August 12, that his office received reports of supposed ASF cases.

“Confirmatory tests have to be done to ascertain if there is ASF resurgence outside of Valencia,” Rafal said.

As of August 9, the Provincial Veterinary Office reported that no new ASF cases in Valencia were reported following culling operations of nearly 200 hogs in Barangay West Balabag.

Rafal is pushing for strengthened biosecurity measures in the towns and cities to prevent the further spread of ASF.

He blamed the resurgence of cases on the lack of monitoring and regular blood sample testing of hogs.

The movement of hogs and pork from one area to another without certification from local government units is a factor for the spread of ASF, even as he urged raisers to stop the practice of swill feeding. (PNA)