2 trucks loaded with suspected ASF-infected hogs stopped at outskirts of Metro Manila

The Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) stopped two trucks carrying pigs suspected to be infected with African Swine Fever (ASF) at the outskirts of Metro Manila, Luisito Santos reported Sunday on Super Radyo Dzbb.

Authorities intercepted one truck carrying 38 pigs along Commonwealth Avenue Quezon City while another checkpoint stopped another truck loaded with another 11 hogs in Malanday, Venezuela City.

During inspections, one of the trucks was found to be using a recycled local shipping permit while the other truck was transporting hogs that showed symptoms of ASF. 

Authorities said the pigs are undergoing ASF testing.

Agriculture Assistant Secretary for Swine and Poultry Dante Palabrica said the agency added more checkpoints in the northern and southern parts of Metro Manila to prevent the entry of ASF-infected hogs into the National Capital Region.

He added that local government units, DA-BAI, and the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) are working together to ensure that meat sold in the market is safe and clean.—Mariel Celine Serquiña/RF, GMA Integrated News