At least 18 barangays in Cotabato have been affected by the African Swine Fever (ASF), the provincial government said.

According to the report of the Office of the Provincial Veterinary (OPVet), up to 958 pigs have tested positive for ASF and have been depopulated.

OPVet also said around 106 hog raisers from 18 barangays in the province are affected.

These barangays include Magsaysay, Poblacion, Datu Agod, Malire, Kiyaab, Luhong, New Pontevedra, and Malatab in Antipas; Poblacion and Idaoman in President Roxas; San Vicente, Bulacanon, Poblacion, Saguing, and Libertad in Makilala; and New Panay, Malagakit, and Banucagon in Pigcawayan.

Governor Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza called on the public anew to follow protocols and measures put in place to prevent the spread of ASF.

The governor also assured that the provincial government and other agencies concerned are doing their best to address the situation.