Aurora bans hogs, pork products from ASF-hit areas

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga, Philippines — The entry of pigs and pork products from areas hit by African swine fever (ASF) is banned in Aurora province starting Aug. 30.

In an executive order signed on Aug. 22, Gov. Christian Noveras said the ban, especially for pigs and pork products from Bulacan, Pampanga and Tarlac, would be in effect until Sept. 30.

He said the three provinces are among the areas under the red zone classification from July 16 to Aug. 4.

“Aurora is undergoing recovery from the effect of ASF and is now classified under yellow based on the national zoning and movement plan,” Noveras said.

The Department of Agriculture had earlier said areas classified under yellow or surveillance zone for ASF are seen to transition to green zone or free from the disease within the year.

Noveras ordered strict monitoring of entry and exit points in the province.

He said local government units should monitor the sale of pork and pork products in public markets and other establishments within their jurisdiction.

Noveras said hog farmers and operators of slaughterhouses should practice maximum biosecurity and high standards of hygiene and sanitation.

The provincial veterinary office and its municipal counterparts should conduct disease investigation surveillance and monitor establishments and hog farms in the province, he added.