The Department of Agriculture (DA) has issued new regulations to strengthen defenses against African Swine Fever (ASF) and ensure safe swine imports, under Administrative Circular No. 12.
The circular introduces ASF regionalization, allowing the recognition of ASF-free zones in accredited exporting countries, aligning with World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) standards.
“The government has been actively working to recover from ASF through a national zoning and movement plan, identifying areas already disease-free. This highlights the importance of science-based monitoring, regionalization for ASF freedom, and adherence to WOAH guidelines for safe swine trade,” said DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.
Only DA-accredited countries can apply for ASF regionalization recognition. Exporting countries must submit reports on ASF surveillance, control measures, and boundaries of ASF-free regions.
The Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), through its Risk Import Assessment Team, will conduct a six-month technical review to verify compliance with DA and international standards. Once completed, the BAI will notify the exporting country of the results.
