LAGAWE, Ifugao – Municipal officials of Mayoyao approved an ordinance providing policies and guidelines for the control and management of the African swine fever (ASF) and other hog-related diseases in the municipality.
The ordinance aims to prevent the negative economic impact and health hazard brought about by the ASF and other hog related diseases.
The law states only locally raised pigs shall be sold within the municipality. Hog, meat sellers/buyers, or swine products purchased from outside shall not be allowed entry or to conduct their business in the municipality regardless if they are infected with ASF or not.
In case buying or selling of pigs and their products outside the municipality is inevitable, a certification issued by proper authorities from the place of origin shall be presented to the Office of the Municipal Agriculturist (OMAG) stating the pigs or their products are ASF-free.
Residents must report suspected ASF cases to the OMAG for testing/assessment. Barangays are mandated to create their own hog raiser association to further strengthen the implementation of the ordinance.
All stakeholders in the municipality are enjoined to strictly adhere to the guidelines stated in the ordinance to avoid the corresponding penalties like the payment of P2,500 on first and succeeding offenses.
The OMAG, Municipal Police Station, representatives from barangay officials, and other law enforcement office will spearhead a 24-hour checkpoint in the borders of the municipality. – Marcelo Lihgawon
