Prov’l Vet Welcomes Lifting of Pork Entry Ban in Cebu

The Provincial Veterinary Office of Negros Occidental welcomed the announcement of Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro that she is lifting the ban on the entry of live pigs and other pork products from other areas.

Dr. Ryan Janoya, head of the Animal Health and Meat Inspection Services, said on Thursday that Cebu’s move will increase and open up the market for pig raisers or hog raisers in the province.

Before the African Swine Fever (ASF) hit the province, Cebu was one of the largest markets for pigs from Negros Occidental for farmers, he pointed out.

Janoya added that the positive effect of the lifting of the pork ban could be felt next week or in August.

This, after many local shippers who in the past sent pork supplies to Cebu, is inquiring for the necessary documents and guidelines to send pigs again to Cebu.

Janoya also said that the move is also an additional benefit for hog raisers because the pigs can now pass through Cebu and be sent to Leyte and Samar provinces.

Janoya said accredited breeder farms in Negros Occidental are supplying breeder hogs in the Leyte and Samar areas.

Last week, Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro lifted the ban on the entry of live hogs and pork products in the province.

In an executive order, Baricuatro outlined that the previous administration implemented “strict control measures” for the entry especially during the height of the African Swine Fever (ASF) in Cebu province.

“The easing of movement restrictions is necessary to support the recovery and revitalization of the local livestock and hog industries,” Baricuatro said.

Baricuatro also said the restriction imposed by her predecessor caused pork prices to shoot up.*