Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival has directed the Department of Veterinary Medicine and Fisheries (DVMF) to intensify African Swine Fever (ASF) prevention, surveillance, and monitoring efforts following a confirmed outbreak in Negros Occidental. The directive, announced on June 29, 2026, aims to protect Cebu's estimated P20-billion hog industry and maintain its zero active ASF case status.
Provincial Executive Order and Restrictions
On June 26, Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro issued Executive Order 36, imposing stricter controls, including a 45-day restriction on livestock vehicles passing through affected areas, enhanced inspection at ports, and tighter monitoring of live hogs and pork products. The province has also intensified farm biosecurity measures.
Five Key Preventive Measures
During a press conference, Mayor Archival outlined five key measures the DVMF will implement: enhancing surveillance in backyard and commercial swine farms, tightening biosecurity assessments, conducting sustained information campaigns, coordinating with barangay officials and the Provincial Veterinarian Office to regulate livestock movement, and inspecting slaughterhouses, markets, and meat establishments for compliance with sanitary and food safety regulations.
Authorities are also instructed to investigate and report suspected ASF cases and implement containment measures per national and local protocols. The DVMF must submit regular reports to the Mayor's Office.
Urgency and Collaboration
Archival emphasized that the DVMF must treat the directive with utmost urgency and ensure strict implementation to prevent the entry and spread of ASF in Cebu City. The Department of Agriculture, barangay officials, and food authorities are to coordinate closely with the Provincial Veterinarian Office.
