DUMAGUETE CITY, Negros Oriental, Sept. 6 (PIA) -- Negros Oriental is pushing for the passage of an ordinance that would strengthen measures to prevent the entry of the dreaded African Swine Fever (ASF) in the province.

In a public hearing, Provincial Board Member Woodrow Maquiling Sr., committee chair on agriculture, said the proposed legislation focuses on prohibiting the entry of live pigs, pork and by-products, and even leftover or pigswill from areas affected by ASF.

This is also to protect the livelihood of hog raisers in the province.

“Negros Oriental is still free from ASF, but even if we are not infected yet of the dreaded swine disease, it doesn’t mean that we will no longer do something to prevent it,” said Maquiling.

It was noted that Eastern Visayas is already affected by ASF, which led Maquiling to re-file the previous proposed ordinance to complete and strengthen some preventive measures.

The said ordinance will now identify the prohibited acts and items, including the prohibition on use of waste items and leftovers, and determine the responsibilities of the ASF Task Force, concerned agencies, and local government units (LGUs).

Maquiling urged LGUs to adopt the ordinance as soon it is approved to prevent the entry of ASF in their respective areas.

“I suggest for other LGUs to come up with their own legislation that will institute all measures to control the spread of the ASF,” he said.

A penalty clause is also included in the said ordinance: P1,000 fine for first offense with show cause order; P2,500 for second offense and cancellation of privileges or license; and P5,000 for third offense for those who enter the province bringing the said prohibited products.

The province is also set to create a provincial ASF task force to implement various biosecurity measures to keep the province free from ASF and protect the industry from other animal diseases. (JCT/PIA7 Negros Oriental)