Bacolod City Regains African Swine Fever-Free Status

Bacolod City Regains African Swine Fever-Free Status

Bacolod City has officially reclaimed its African Swine Fever-free status, a development expected to boost confidence in local pork production. This progress follows the City Veterinary Office’s strict adherence to national guidelines on ASF recovery, marking a major milestone for the city.

In Executive Order 11-2025, dated June 2, Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez declared Bacolod City free from African Swine Fever. “The declaration will signify the City of Bacolod’s achievements in disease control efforts, bringing economic stability and consumer confidence in (its) pork production industry,” the mayor said.

Upgrading to ASF-Free Zone Boosts Pork Industry

The Department of Agriculture (DA) in Western Visayas endorsed Bacolod City’s upgrade from an infected (red) zone to a buffer (pink) zone. This upgrade came after a thorough evaluation confirmed the City Veterinary Office’s compliance with the national ASF recovery protocols. “I commend the City Veterinary Office and the local ASF Task Force for their dedication and swift action in restoring the city’s ASF-free status,” the mayor added.

As of May 16, Bacolod City joined 498 local government units nationwide that have improved their ASF status from red to pink zones under the DA-Bureau of Animal Industry’s National ASF Prevention and Control Program.

Impact of ASF and Measures Taken

In mid-2023, Bacolod reported its first four ASF cases, which severely affected the backyard swine population. Records showed that approximately 842 hog raisers reported swine deaths to the city government. To address the demand and support recovery, the mayor lifted the city’s ban on the entry of live pigs, pork, and pork products from other parts of the country in May last year.

This directive aligns with the updated DA Administrative Circular No. 22 and local and national policies. However, Mayor Benitez emphasized that all shipments of live pigs, pork, and related products entering Bacolod must be accompanied by necessary permits and documents.

The restored ASF-free status is a significant step towards reviving the local hog industry and ensuring economic stability for swine raisers and consumers alike.

For more news and updates on African Swine Fever, visit Filipinokami.com.