6 more ASF checkpoints to be set up in Metro Manila

MANILA, Philippines —  More checkpoints will be established in Metro Manila to stop delivery vehicles transporting hogs and pork products possibly contaminated with African swine fever or ASF, the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) announced yesterday.

During a meeting of the Metro Manila Council on Wednesday, officials of the BAI said ASF checkpoints would be set up in six areas.

These checkpoints will be located in Manila, Quezon City, Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas and Valenzuela.

The BAI identified these locations as pass-through points for shipment of hogs and pork products.

Apart from testing positive for ASF in clinical tests, violators of ASF checkpoints present falsified shipment papers or have no permits at all, the BAI noted.

While the BAI will provide manpower and logistics for the additional ASF checkpoints, the agency asked for support from Metro Manila mayors.

The BAI is asking for tents, chairs and tables, disinfection supplies as well as additional veterinary personnel from the local government units.

Acting Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Romando Artes lauded the BAI action to put up more checkpoints to stop the spread of ASF.