Cebu Province remains free of African Swine Fever (ASF), but authorities are now considering a temporary ban on the entry of live hogs and pork products to protect the local industry following reports of the virus in Negros Island.
Governor and Veterinarian Discuss Border Restrictions
Cebu Provincial Veterinarian Mary Rose Vincoy confirmed on Monday, July 6, 2026, that she met with Governor Pamela Baricuatro to discuss the possibility of temporary border restrictions. “There was a discussion with the governor and there is a contemplation of doing that. We are looking into the possibility of a temporary ban,” Vincoy said.
“I think there is a need and I recommended to the governor that I will fully support if there is a temporary ban, knowing that there are also LGUs in Negros Oriental that are trying to contain the virus,” she added.
Executive Order to Include Price Monitoring
The planned executive order would also include monitoring of pork prices in the market to prevent price hikes and protect consumers. According to the Provincial Veterinary Office, the Capitol is currently studying biosecurity measures and the potential economic impact before implementing the policy.
Hog Industry Valued at Billions
The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) estimates Cebu’s hog industry to be worth P20 billion to P22 billion, while the Cebu Federation of Dairy and Hog Cooperatives says it reaches P25 billion when the entire value chain is included. “When we say the hog industry, it’s not only the one who actually produces pigs, but other inputs and those will be affected with the value chain,” Vincoy explained.
Local Supply Can Meet Demand
The province believes that backyard and commercial hog raisers in Cebu can meet local market demand if the temporary ban is implemented. “We just have to understand that this is a solution for the other Cebuano to return their products… we also have to balance everything, like this is prevention, economy, and how to address the needs of the protein requirements of the Cebuano,” Vincoy said.
Cebu Remains ASF-Free
Currently, there are no active ASF cases in Cebu. According to Vincoy, active surveillance and laboratory testing in 15 local government units (LGUs) have yielded negative results, earning the province a Recognition for Active Surveillance on African Swine Fever (RAS-ASF) from the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI).
