Rama wants adequate livestock, poultry supply

CEBU, Philippines —  Amid the confirmed cases of African Swine Fever (ASF) in Cebu City, Mayor Michael Rama has ordered concerned city officials to ensure adequate production and preservation of livestock and poultry supply in the city.

The mayor directed the City Agriculture Office, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Fisheries, City Market Operations Division, and other City Hall departments to implement his order.

"With the foregoing situation, the City of Cebu need not look into the minute details but looks beyond to sustain its socio-economic gains and to sustain what it started by strongly moving forward and adopting measures to assure not only the efficient delivery of services but to secure the dreams and aspirations of its people under the Singapore-like Cebu City vision," said Rama.

The mayor explained the importance of taking care of the agricultural sector.

"Your city government is committed to carry on towards our vision for a Singapore-like Cebu City. Our thrust now is to strengthen the agricultural sector to help allied industries be productive and sustainable and empower the barangays and our producers in this effort," the mayor added.

He told the CAD and DVMF to coordinate with the regional offices of the national government operating in Cebu City to secure the optimum production, protection, and preservation of livestock and poultry industry.

The said departments are expected to utilize all available resources for the purpose and to work as one to control and manage any illnesses that may affect the said sectors.

The Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW) was likewise directed to work with national agencies, especially in the establishment of additional farm to market roads to support local farmers to enhance their capability and capacity. — FPL (FREEMAN)