The African Swine Fever (ASF) has been a growing concern among pig farmers and traders in the Philippines. The rapid spread of the disease, has caused significant economic losses to the swine industry and affected the livelihoods of many Filipino farmers.
In response to this, the Agricultural Training Institute- Regional Training Center 1 has conducted four (4) batches of Seminars on Bantay ASF sa Barangay Biosecurity and Surveillance for Integrated National Swine Production Initiatives for Recovery and Expansion (INSPIRE) beneficiaries of the Department of Agriculture. The seminar was able to equip a total of 97 farmer leaders with knowledge and skills on ASF biosecurity and surveillance in order to sustain and improve the project granted by the DA.
The four batches of seminars were conducted at the following sites:
Laoag City, Ilocos Norte
The first batch was held at OPAG Conference Hall, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte on April 3, 2023. It was participated by 25 farmer leaders from the different cities and municipalities of Ilocos Norte. Dr. Loida M. Valenzuela, Provincial Veterinarian, and Dr. Joselito P. Ramiro Veterinarian II, served as the Resource Speakers during the seminar.
Bantay, Ilocos Sur
A total of 20 beneficiaries from various cities and municipalities of Ilocos Sur were briefed about barangay biosecurity and surveillance during the second batch which was conducted at LCS Hall, Bantay, Ilocos Sur on April 4, 2023. Dr. Donna Mae C. Rosario, Provincial Veterinarian of Ilocos Sur discussed biosecurity and surveillance. The participants learned how to assess the biosecurity level of their farms.
San Fernando City, La Union
Twenty-five (25) farmer leaders participated in the third batch held at DA-RFO 1, San Fernando City, La Union on June 27, 2023. Ms. Raquel P. Difuntorum, Administrative Officer V of Provincial Veterinary Office in La Union served as Resource speaker.
Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan
The last batch was held at ATI-RTC 1, Tebag East, Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan on July 31, 2023. Dr. Arcely Robeniol, Veterinarian II of the Provincial Veterinary Office of Pangasinan, discussed the importance of biosecurity measures in preventing the spread of ASF including proper sanitation, disinfection, and quarantine procedures. The actions related to biosecurity and surveillance, pre-audit, and biosecurity evaluation based on ASF prevention are expected to be implemented by 27 farmer leaders who attended the activity.
