Cash Assistance for Hog Raisers Affected with ASF Distributed
By: Dr. Romuelda M. Gallebo, GPC-OPVET | Photos By: GPC-OPVET | Date: February 1 to 5, 2021 and March 15 to 17, 2021
Considering the big impact of African Swine Fever (ASF) in the swine industry and in the life of the hog raisers and their family, the Provincial Government of La Union, through the representatives from the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian, headed by Dr. Nida N. Gapuz; Office of the Provincial Treasury, headed by Ms. Janet D. Molina; and in coordination with the Municipal Agriculture Offices, distributed a total of P4, 708,000.00 to 770 hog raisers affected with ASF on February 1 to 5, 2021 and March 15 to 17, 2021 in the Municipalities of Agoo, Pugo, Aringay, Bauang, Balaoan, Naguilian, Burgos, Luna, Bangar, Bacnotan and Santol.
On the other hand, a total of P 18,715,000 were distributed by the Department of Agriculture as assistance to a different group of hog raisers. The cash assistance was distributed in order for the hog raisers to cope with their losses due to the ASF. Another set of distribution will be scheduled for other affected hog raisers.
ASF cases were recorded in the Province of La Union and culling were done in compliance with Department of Agriculture Administrative Order No. 22 series of 2020 to prevent and stop its spread in the neighboring barangays and municipalities.
ASF is a highly contagious hemorrhagic viral disease of domestic and wild pigs of all ages. Mortality can be as high as 100%. There is currently no available vaccine and treatment against African Swine Fever.
