Alcala calls for more cooperation in controlling spread of FMD

MANILA, Philippines — Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala has called for increased cooperation between countries to control the spread of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) and other transboundary animal diseases to realize growth in the livestock industry.

During the recently-concluded 21st OIE Sub-Commission Meeting for FMD in South-East Asia and China held in Manila from March 10 to 13, 2015, Alcala said animal disease control should be a shared obligation among countries – both having cases of infestation and those free from it – as governments target to eradicate FMD by 2020.

The meeting brought together 100 representatives from all Southeast Asian countries and China, the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) and its technical partners, the private sector, the academia and donor countries.

The gathering of officials and technical experts provided an update on the current FMD situation in the region and efforts to control and eradicate the disease.

“With China and Southeast Asia emerging as new global growth hubs, there is a growing recognition of the huge potentials of the region’s livestock and poultry sector and the significant role it will play in the region’s progress,” Alcala said.

He noted, however, that despite the region’s huge economic potential, it’s livestock sector is hampered by a number of constraints, including the persistence of some transboundary and highly contagious animal diseases such as the FMD.

Alcala also highlighted that while the Philippines has maintained an FMD-free status without vaccination – through progressive zoning approach – it has not become complacent and continues to work with other countries, through the OIE, for FMD control.

He said the DA has always been on strict watch against the disease’s possible return as FMD has yet to be totally eradicated in neighboring China and the majority of Southeast Asian countries.

“There is no other way then but for countries to cooperate more in strengthening the global anti-FMD network, as no country on its own could totally eradicate the disease,” Alcala said.

He added that the annual meeting is a venue for continuous collaboration, networking and strengthening of animal health programs of member countries to achieve the common goal of preventing, controlling and eliminating FMD.

“Through this activity and with OIE’s guidance, we would be ensured that FMD control activities among countries become more coordinated as coherent regional strategies are crafted. These are equally important on top of technical advice, and political and resource support to achieve FMD freedom,” Alcala said.

FMD is a highly contagious transboundary animal disease, which poses serious threats to the livestock production, food security, and livelihoods of farmers globally.

The presence of FMD reduces productivity and restricts market access as a country’s FMD-free status is an international trade requirement.