TACLOBAN CITY — Veterinary and agriculture officials in Eastern Samar have stepped up coordination efforts to protect the province’s livestock industry and ensure food safety amid continuing threats from animal diseases.
The Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) recently convened a consultative meeting with municipal agriculturists and meat inspectors from across the province to strengthen disease control measures and improve regulatory coordination.
Led by Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Melanie Osita, the meeting focused on the current status of African Swine Fever (ASF) and the continued enforcement of veterinary border checkpoints to prevent the entry of live hogs from ASF-positive areas.
The provincial ASF Task Force remains on alert to safeguard the local hog population and ensure safe pork products for consumers.
Officials also tackled issues surrounding livestock transport certificates, noting inconsistencies in how documents are recognized among municipalities. The PVO urged local government units to harmonize ordinances to promote fair trade, protect backyard raisers, and prevent pricing disparities.
Aside from ASF, updates were presented on the anti-rabies vaccination drive, Avian Influenza Control and Protection Program, and other agriculture and fisheries initiatives aimed at sustaining food supply and public health in the province.
Authorities said stronger coordination among LGUs is key to keeping Eastern Samar’s livestock sector disease-free and resilient.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
