By JEN BAYLON

Sixteen local government units (LGUs) in the Negros Island Region (NIR) are still affected by African swine fever, the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) said.

Based on the updated zoning classifications for ASF, Negros Occidental capital Bacolod City and the cities of Bago and Escalante have been categorized as infected zones, signifying active ASF cases that demand strict quarantine protocols and movement restrictions.

Negros Oriental capital Dumaguete City, and the municipalities of Bayawan, Tanjay, Amlan, Bacong, Basay, Bindoy, Dauin, Manjuyod, Pamplona, Siaton, Sibulan, Valencia, and Zamboanguita are also classified as infected zones.

Cadiz City, La Carlota City, Talisay City, and Manapla in Negros Occidental; as well as Bais City, Ayungon and Guihulngan City fall under buffer zones, requiring intensified prevention efforts to halt ASF progression.

Candoni, Cauayan and Sagay City in Negros Occidental; and Jimalalud and La Libertad in Negros Oriental have been classified as surveillance zones, emphasizing the need for regular monitoring and testing to detect early signs of ASF.

The updated ASF zoning underscores the urgency of collective efforts from LGUs, swine producers and the public to implement stringent control measures.

LGUs are advised to enforce biosecurity measures, regulate swine movement and educate stakeholders on ASF prevention.

“NIR is a vital contributor to the country’s pork supply. Protecting this region from further ASF impact is essential for ensuring food security and sustaining local livelihoods,” BAI officer-in-charge Dr. Diosamia Sevilla said.

The newly established region is a key player in the swine industry, and ASF outbreaks pose significant risks to farmers’ incomes and pork supply stability.

The proactive zoning approach aims to mitigate these impacts and protect unaffected areas, ensuring the long-term resilience of the region’s agricultural economy./JB, WDJ