DA wants importation of infected goats probed

MANILA, Philippines —  Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. has ordered an investigation into the importation of goats infected with Q fever.

Laurel issued the order after receiving reports that local goats in Sta. Cruz, Marinduque – where the imported animals were taken – contracted the disease.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has yet to determine the country of origin, the date of arrival and the number of goats, whose importation was reportedly allowed by the Bureau of Animal Industry.

Tiu Laurel created a three-member fact-finding team to identify people behind the alleged anomaly.

He designated DA Assistant Secretary for policy and regulations Paz Benavidez II as chairperson of the fact-finding team, with Assistant Secretary Carlos Carag and legal services director Willie Ann Angsiy as members.

Tiu Laurel said the panel would recommend filing of charges and suspension of officials found liable for the importation.

He directed all bureaus and offices of the DA, including its attached agencies and corporations, to assist the fact-finding team by providing documents needed for the investigation.

The panel was given 30 days from the creation of the special order  to submit an initial report on the matter.

The United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention said Q fever is a disease caused by the bacteria Coxiella burnetii, which affect animals such as goats, sheep and cows.

People can contract the disease by breathing dust contaminated with the infected animal’s feces, urine, milk and birth products.