By CESAR JOLITO III

Hog raisers in Negros Occidental are seeing new opportunities after Cebu province lifted its ban on the entry of live pigs and livestock, a restriction previously imposed to prevent the spread of African swine fever (ASF).

Dr. Ryan Janoya, chief of the Provincial Veterinary Office’s Animal Health and Meat Inspection Services, said the move is a major boost for local hog producers as it reopens a lucrative market and restores trade routes disrupted by ASF-related restrictions.

“Before ASF, Cebu had always been a key market for Negros Occidental, especially for pigs used for lechon. Now that the ban is lifted, local shippers who previously supplied Cebu are already inquiring about the requirements and guidelines to resume shipments,” Janoya said.

He added that the reopening of Cebu as a market will not only benefit traders but will also allow the province to reconnect its supply chain to Leyte and Samar, particularly for breeder hogs.

“Previously, accredited breeder farms in Negros supplied Leyte and Samar through Cebu. With the restrictions gone, this route is open again,” he explained.

Aside from Cebu and the Visayas, Negros Occidental continues to supply pork to Luzon markets.

Janoya said the positive effects of Cebu’s decision may be felt in the coming weeks or months as shipment resumes.

However, Janoya clarified that Negros Occidental maintains its ban on the entry of live pigs from areas with ASF cases to safeguard the province’s hog industry./CJ, WDJ