DA reports ASF cases in La Union, Negros Oriental; 575 pigs culled

Ten villages across two towns and one city in La Union, as well as Barangay West Balabag in Valencia town in Negros Oriental, have reported positive cases of African swine fever (ASF) according to the Department of Agriculture (DA).

In La Union, seven affected villages are located in Balaoan, two in Luna, and one in San Fernando City, resulting in the culling of 329 pigs from Balaoan, 56 from Luna, and 30 from San Fernando.

Barangay West Balabag in Valencia town has reported 160 infected pigs scheduled for culling following a resurgence of ASF cases that were initially detected last month.

Local government units have implemented temporary bans on live swine movement into or out of these areas to prevent further spread, and checkpoints are being established to monitor the entry of live hogs from affected barangays.

Backyard hog raisers affected by culling in La Union will receive PHP5,000 per pig culled with a maximum compensation limit of 20 pigs per raiser.