No to

EO128!
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:
• Landbank doubles funds to P30B for distressed swine industry
• Negros Oriental sends 25K hogs monthly to NCR, other provinces
• P10M swine multiplier farm to rise in Bohol
SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021 1
Photo: freepik.com
2 SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021
 THE PRESIDENT’S CORNER
Edwin Chen
President, Pork Producers Federation of the Philippines, Inc.

I
have always tried to maintain a and acting as one coherent body.
positive attitude whether it’s about

SWINE
business or life in general. And Passing on the baton
in these times when our resilience This April, we also held our election
seems to be tested left and right, it is of officers—and I’m happy to announce
more important that we stand firm that we have a new set leaders: Chairman
in our conviction to look for the silver Nicanor “Nikki” Briones and President Vol. XVIII No. 01
lining towards a better tomorrow. Rolando “Nonon” Tambago. Watch out for Feb/Apr 2021
our next issue where we will feature our
Ending 2020, I looked forward to a new set of officers. ...................................................................
better 2021. But this year has it own set of Chairman Eliseo Yu and I will serve as
challenges.We continue to battle Covid-19 advisors along with several “veterans” of SWINE MAGAZINE is published
where we have seen cases rise to as high our federation. bi-monthly by the
as the 11,000 level a day. And this has Since our federation was founded in Pork Producers Federation
brought us to another lockdown starting 1990, our leaders have upheld our mission of the Philippines, Inc.,
last March. to always push for the promotion and the largest hog farmers group in
Our beloved pork industry continues to development of our industry—which has the Philippines.
be beset with the African swine fever (ASF) evolved from being just hog raisers then
that has caused many of our members to being pork producers now where our
to close their piggeries—hopefully, only members have expanded their businesses Eliseo S.Yu
temporary—because they can’t afford to into the various aspects of pork production Chairman
repopulate after having to slaughter their like feedmilling and all the way to retail
ASF-infected pigs. sales direct to consumers. Edwin G. Chen
And in recent months, we have had Our evolution is part of the legacy President
to fight tooth and nail with government, that our founders have bestowed on us.
the Department of Agriculture (DA) in And this we hope the new and future Jemileen U. Nuqui-Ruiz
particular, to save our local pork industry. generations will continue to uphold. Editor/Consultant
Aside from fighting for better and faster I am thankful to the late Albert Lim, our
indemnification for those of us whose first Pork Producers Chairman Emeritus,
farms have been hit by ASF, the DA slapped who paved the way for my entry into a Office Address:
us with SRP and now President Duterte’s leadership role with our federation. And Unit 220 Winland Tower
EO 128 which brings down tariff rates equally thankful to Chairman Eli for his Residences, 45 Tomas Morato
on imported pork and the subsequent support through the years that we have Avenue, Quezon City
increase in the minimum access volume. been in tandem as Chair and President.
We are not against importation, but we It was both challenging and fulfilling Landline:
are opposing EO 128 because it benefits to take on this role. I have learned a lot (+632) 470-8474
only the importers who will get away with through these years, and hope to learn TeleFax:
paying lower tariff for products they will more. And as we pass on the baton to our (+632) 638-0770
sell at current prices, NOT lower prices— new leaders, we wish them all the best.
shoring up their profits. Special mention goes to the people E-mail:
Despite all these, we continue to fight! who started all this—Nemesio Co, Loretta [email protected]
I am thankful to all of you, and our allies in Galang, Lina Typoco Chai, Frank Ortiz, Jake
the private sector and in government who Sta. Ana, Salvador Valbuena and Antonio Social Media Account:
are helping us in our quest for a better Tomlin—who went around the country to www.facebook.com/pork.
future for our industry. listen to the plight of other hog producers. producers
Our VP for Luzon Nicanor Briones has And it was during those meetings where ...................................................................
been very vocal and always present for hog raisers led by Nemesio Co (our first Entered as a 3rd Class printed mail
print, radio, television, and social media Chairman) realized the need for hog raisers matter. Postage PAID.
interviews to bring our points across. And all over county to organize and form Validity Date: 31 December 2021
this is the way to get our issues to the themselves into a cohesive national group
people.We need to let our voices be heard, so their voices and opinions will be heard.

SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021 3

4 SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021
 COVER STORY

Pork Producers rejects EO 128

PHOTO: Business Insider

T
he Pork Producers Fede- like EO 128, it is bent on making our lives Wrong figures
ration of the Philippines, Inc. harder,” Briones said. In interviews with the press and during
(Pork Producers) strongly He noted that there’s no need to reduce congressional hearings, Briones noted that
opposes President Duterte’s tariff rates and increase importation quota to the figures being floated by the DA regarding
Executive Order (EO) 128 which 400,000 metric tons from the current 54,000 the shortage of pork supply is wrong.
significantly lowers tariff rate on metric tons because pork importers are He noted that consumer demand has
imported pork products. already earning a lot even with the current gone down by about 25% so the importation
tariff rate. may go up to about 150,000 metric tons but
Pork Producers Vice-President for Luzon EO 128 reduces tariff rates on pork not 400,000 metric tons.
Nicanor Briones pointed out that reducing imports to 15% from the current 40% for Briones added that the government
tariff rates on imported pork will only flood minimum access volume (MAV) out-quota figures are based on 2018 data when
the market with imported products, easing and to 5% from 30% for in-quota for a period demand was high and everything was still
out those produced by the local market. of one year. normal.
“As it is, Philippine pork producers are “Last year, lockdown na tayo at nagmahal
already having the most difficult time not Protect local farmers ang baboy kaya siyempre may pagbaba sa
only because we are in a pandemic caused by Pork producers all over the country are demand ng baboy. And iba gulay na muna or de
Covid-19, but more so because of the African complaining that instead of protecting local lata o noodles. Kaya hindi puwedeng gamiting
swine fever (ASF) that has hit our domestic farmers, the DA seem to be more keen in ang lumang data.”
industry.” protecting importers, even going as far as
He pointed out that even before the setting aside a budget of about Php45 million EO 128 is bad for sector, gov’t
pandemic started, “many pork producers to buy freezers to be placed at the wet The federation is firm in its stand
have been hit by ASF. We had to slaughter markets for the imported pork products. rejecting EO 128 because it does not take
of thousands of pigs to help ensure that the This move came after local producers into account the plight of the local pork
disease does not spread to other farms.” noted that imported pork cannot be sold in producers.
Unfortunately, he said there was minimal wet markets because thawed frozen meat if There is no need to increase the MAV
to no help from the government when it left on tables can grow bacteria and cause because there is already no limit to the
came to assisting pork producers to get back health problems for consumers. volume that importers can bring in. They
on their feet. The government should instead focus just have to pay the appropriate tariff rate.
on how to help the domestic pork sector. Briones said increasing the MAV will
Making life harder If government can provide grants of Php45 only allow importers to pay lower tariff,
“And now, the government gives us million for freezers, it should be able to flood local markets with imported pork to
EO 128! The Department of Agriculture provide funds to quickly indemnify hog raisers the detriment of domestic producers, and
is supposed to help the local sector, but it who have had to slaughter their pigs because deprive government coffers of billions of
seems that with proposals to the President of ASF. pesos in revenues.

SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021 5

6 SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021
 NEWS AND UPDATES

Landbank doubles funds to P30B

for distressed swine industry

T
he Land Bank of the Enterprises) lending program for permanent working capital is payable up
Philippines (Landbank) is commercial hog raisers registered as to five years; and fixed asset acquisition is
raising its available loan cooperatives or farmers’ associations, payable based on the cash flow or payback
window in support of local pork small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and period of the project, with a grace period
producers and feed millers to large enterprises or corporations. on the principal and interest.
Php30 billion from Php15 billion On 17 March 2021, the state-run bank, The DA will provide the list of eligible
for distressed swine industry in partnership with the Department of program borrowers and assist them in the
reeling from the adverse impact Agriculture (DA), launched the SWINE preparation of a business plan, enrollment
of the Asian swine fever (ASF). lending program to support the local in the Philippine Crop Insurance Corp.
hog industry amid threats from the ASF (PCIC), and in securing necessary permits.
Top officials of the Department of outbreak and assist hog raisers in sustaining The DA will also provide loan recipients
ThThis came following the directive from and increasing pork production. training on biosecurity management and
Finance Secretary and Landbank chairman As of 15 April 2021, Landbank said it breeding or rearing of hogs, while engaging
Carlos Dominguez III for the state lender is already processing six loan applications the services of different organizations in
to double its support for hog raisers, feed for the SWINE lending program from the capability building and implementation of
millers, and other industry players dealing provinces of Tarlac, Cavite, Rizal, Bukidnon biosecurity protocols.
with supply shortfalls and retail price and South Cotabato amounting to Php2.96 Landbank, for its part, will accept
spirals of pork products. billion combined. and evaluate loan applications of eligible
“Landbank is doubling its funds available Loans under this program shall be used borrowers and facilitate the release of loan
for financing swine repopulation, feed for swine production, which includes the proceeds.
milling operations and facility upgrades in acquisition or importation of semen or The bank will also monitor the
order to help address at the soonest the breeding animals; feed milling operations; performance of the program and provide
supply shortfalls and subsequent retail the construction, improvement or monthly reports to the DA.
price spirals affecting both hog producers retrofitting of necessary facilities that are The Landbank SWINE lending program
and pork consumers,” Dominguez said in compliant to biosecurity protocols of DA, will be available until 31 December 2026 in
a statement. the industry or integrators; acquisition of support of the DA’s hog repopulation plan.
He said the Landbank is taking steps to fixed assets; and as working capital. capability building and implementation
ease the supply and price pressures with Eligible borrowers may avail of a short- of biosecurity protocols.
additional funding support for stakeholders, term loan line or a term loan for up to Landbank, for its part, will accept
as the steep rise in pork prices is partly 80% of their total project cost or financing and evaluate loan applications of eligible
responsible for the current elevated requirement, with an affordable fixed borrowers and facilitate the release of loan
inflation amid the pandemic. interest rate of 3% per annum for three proceeds.
The funds will be available under years, subject to annual repricing thereafter. The bank will also monitor the
the Landbank SWINE (Special Window Under the program, short-term loans performance of the program and provide
and Interim Support to Nurture Hog have a tenor of one year; term loan for monthly reports to the DA.

Repopulation Program offered to Cagayan Valley hog raisers

B
AYOMBONG, Nueva clustering with a minimum of 50 to 60 directly affected hog raisers since last year.
Vizcaya – The Department farmers. DA figures show that due to the
of Agriculture will be “This is one of our programs to help our devastation brought by ASF, the region had
offering a swine repopulation hog raisers to recover and to increase the only 262,000 in hog population for 2020
program to increase the supply of hog population in the region,” he said. compared with the 400,000 population in
pork in the Cagayan Valley region. The African swine fever (ASF) that 2019.
wrecked havoc in the region has severely In Nueva Vizcaya, only the towns of
Arsenio Apostol, Nueva Vizcaya affected hog raisers,causing the DA in Cagayan Alfonso Castaneda, Dupax del Sur and
Experimental Station Officer-In-Charge, Valley to roll out a Php21-million assistance Bambang remain free from ASF infection.
said the repopulation program will be for those categorized as immediately affected – Benjamin Moses M. Ebreo, MDCT/
implemented among hog raisers through and another Php75 million more those BME/PIA 2-Nueva Vizcaya

SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021 7

8 SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021
SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021 9
 PRICE WATCH
WATCH

Average Farm Gate Price | AS OF 30 APRIL 2021

PROVINCE JAN FEB MAR APR
LUZON
BATANGAS 230.00 221.25 231.20 245.00
BULACAN 234.38 210.00 220.00 238.33
BULACAN - CS 155.00 135.00 157.50 155.83
CAVITE 215.74 211.67 218.00 226.67
LAGUNA 227.50 225.00 215.00 235.00
LAGUNA - CS 140.00 133.33 143.00 160.00
MARINDUQUE 157.50 175.00 154.00 160.00
MARINDUQUE - CS 93.75 100.00 100.00 100.00
METRO VIGAN 163.75 171.88 174.00 171.67
METRO VIGAN - CS 125.00 145.00
MINDORO - BANSUD 183.75 145.00 176.00 202.50
MINDORO - BANSUD - CS 77.50 98.75 79.80 100.00
NAGA, BICOL 170.00 166.25 191.50 208.33
NAGA, BICOL - CS 86.25 106.67 110.00 110.00
NUEVA ECIJA NA 240.00 220.00 218.83
NUEVA ECIJA - CS NA NA NA NA
PAMPANGA 200.00 NA NA NA
PAMPANGA - CS NA NA NA NA
PANGASINAN 227.50 215.00 213.33 250.83
PANGASINAN - CS 155.00 150.00 133.33 160.00
PHIL P.I.G. 191.75 192.67 192.67 NA
PHIL P.I.G. - CS 125.75 111 129.30 NA
QUEZON 217.00 205.63 220.00 233.33
QUEZON -CS NA 145.00 150.00 160.00
RIZAL 215.00 225.00 212.50 230.00
RIZAL-CS 95.00 140.00 NA NA
TARLAC 230.63 230.00 210.00 NA
TARLAC-CS 167.50 NA NA NA
VISAYAS
BACOLOD 123.75 130.00 NA NA
BACOLOD-CS 65.00 NA NA NA
CEBU 123.75 145.00 155.00 155.00
CEBU-CS 65.00 72.50 78.00 78.33
ILOILO 136.25 126.25 131.00 151.67
ILOILO-CS 72.50 NA NA 96.67
NEGROS ORIENTAL 122.50 133.75 130.00 NA
NEGROS ORIENTAL - CS 107.50 NA NA NA
MINDANAO
AGUSAN DEL SUR 118.13 153.33 155.50 155.00
AGUSAN DEL SUR - CS NA 90.00 100.00 97.50
BUTUAN 95.00 135.00 NA NA
BUTUAN - CS 52.50 NA NA NA
CAGAYAN DE ORO 154.75 175.00 NA NA
CAGAYAN DE ORO - CS 78.33 100.00 NA NA
BUKIDNON 152.50 156.25 163.00 165.00
BUKIDNON-CS 105.00 103.75 91.92 95.00
DAVAO NA 177.50 NA 180.00
DAVAO-CS NA 107.50 NA NA
GENSAN 164.17 190.00 NA NA
GENSAN-CS 100.00 105.00 NA NA

10 SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021

 PRICE WATCH

KORONADAL 150.00 148.33 146.00 NA

KORONADAL - CS 88.18 88.33 90.00 NA
OZAMIS 133.13 162.50 167.50 167.50
OZAMIS - CS 88.75 100.00 NA NA
PAGADIAN 139.38 165.83 163.00 165.00
PAGADIAN - CS 70.00 71.67 75.00 75.00
SURIGAO 117.50 133.75 NA NA
ZAMBOANGA 135.25 152.50 150.00 150.00
ZAMBOANGA - CS NA 100.00 100.00 100.00
ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY 121.25 155.00 154.00 152.50
ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY - CS 65.00 96.67 95.00 91.67

Raw Materials | BULACAN PRICES; AVERAGE MONTHLY BASED ON WEEKLY REPORT, SOURCE: PAFMI
JAN FEB MAR APR
Yellow corn 15.25-17.75 14.95-17.50 14.90-17.50 14.65-17.25
Feedwheat AUS 16.82 16.40 16.36 16.20-16.43
Feedwheat 16.10-16.45 15.85-16.13 15.55-16.15 15.70-16.24
USSBM 28.50-29.31 28.23-29.33 27.43-28.63 26.95-28.26
ArgSBM 28.17-28.67 27.75-28.25 26.75-27.25 26.50-27.00
Rice Bran from N. Ecija 8.40 9.60 9.57 8.70
Rice Bran from Bocaue 8.45-12.25 8.83-12.50 9.48-12.50 8.13-11.25
Pollard Hard 6.40-8.00 7.00-8.00 6.63-8.00 6.69-9.18
Pollard Soft 7.03 7.15 7.03 7.85
Local Fish Meal - 55% CP 57.25 14.25 55.25 55.00
Local Fish Meal - 60% CP 61.25 61.00 59.50 56.50
Full Fat Soya 33.65-34.70 34.18-35.10 35.50-36.25 36.45-37.15
Copra Meal 12.55-13.33 10.85-11.88 10.50-11.65 11.40-13.08
Coco Oil 71.50-72.50 68.63-69.75 73.25-74.13 73.38-75.25
Crude Palm Oil 49.63 49.50 55.25 56.00-57.00
Refine Palm Oil 51.50-53.25 51.25-52.67 56.50-58.25 57.00-58.60
Molasses 12.93 12.90 12.78 12.88
DDgs 19.63 20.58 21.28 21.00-22.50

Pork Importation | AS OF 28 FEBRUARY 2021, SOURCE: BAI-NVQSD

Sum of Weight in kgs. JAN FEB TOTAL
Bellies 3,110,300 2,556,200 5,666,500
Fats 3,812,200 4,752,488 8,564,688
Offals 11,756,542 11,952,790 23,709,332
Pork Cuts 6,915,019 8,702,933 15,617,951
Rind/Skin 2,463,900 2,704,700 5,168,600
Whole Pork 30,000 30,000
TOTAL 28,057,961 30,699,111 58,757,072

SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021 11

12 SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021
 NEWS AND UPDATES

Negros Oriental sends 25K hogs monthly to NCR,

other provinces

D
UMAGUETE CITY – Hog association of hog farmers and traders, enough pork meat for local consumption
farmers in Negros Oriental Tundag said they now supply 24,000 to despite the upward supply trend for other
are now bouncing back 25,000 pigs to areas outside of the province provinces.
from the effects of the coronavirus each month. Meanwhile, Negros Oriental continues
“The prices of live weight hogs are to keep a tight watch against ASF by
disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic
pegged between Php140 to Php145 per restricting the entry of pork products via
as they now supply around 25,000
kilo, and this is just the buying price,” he the airport and sea ports, Tundag said.
live pigs per month to the National said. The Bulado Port in Guihulngan City
Capital Region and other areas at Last year, at the height of the pandemic and the wharf in Sibulan town, which have
competitive prices. and due to strict quarantine restrictions, reopened in recent months after being
pork was being sold in Negros Oriental at closed at the height of the pandemic last
Dr. Alfonso Tundag, quarantine officer a low price of Php99 per kilo, as these could year, are now being closely monitored by
and head of the Bureau of Animal Industry not be transported outside of the province. BAI teams, he added.
(BAI) here, said the continuing threat posed Trading is now brisk between Negros Tundag said local government units
by the African swine fever (ASF) that has Oriental suppliers and buyers from Cebu, (LGUs) have been alerted to keep an eye
affected many provinces, allowed local hog Manila, and other places because pork meat on the possible illegal entry of banned pork
raisers to expand their markets in the past prices in these areas have spiraled due to by-products, such as chorizo, from areas
few months. the ASF scare, Tundag said. where ASF cases have been reported. –
In a recent meeting with the local He assured, though, that there is still Mary Judaline Partlow, PNA

Guidelines for transboundary animal diseases center approved

S
hipments of live hogs and (Bayanihan to Recover as One Act), risk communication, and the needs
frozen carcass or “pork- adhering the disbursement rules set by the to poultry and livestock farming
in-a- box” from Visayas and Department of Budget and Management communities; and
Mindanao (Vis-Min) have been subject to auditing rules and regulation. • Serve as the central storage
increased to address the current Among the specific objectives of the facility for animal vaccines, supplies and
low supply and artificial high CenTrad include: equipment for emergency and disease
prices of pork in public markets • Provide a venue for focused management.
in Metro Manila and other areas animal disease diagnostics, monitoring and Aside from BAI, the major
in Luzon. surveillance particularly of TADs in the SUC partners in CenTraD project
country; implementation are Central Luzon
According to Memorandum Order • Serve as a hub for risk analysis, State University (CLSU), Cavite
No. 05 signed by Dar on April 8, development of plans and the management State University, Central Bicol State
CenTrad will serve as center for risk and implementation of interventional University, Central Mindanao University,
analysis, investigation, diagnosis, mapping, veterinary assistance in times of TADs Isabela State University, Visayas State
and emergency management of the outbreak; University, Tarlac State University,
Transboundary Animal Diseases (TADs). • Serve as a hub for multidisciplinary Cagayan State University, Don Mariano
“This project envisions the creation capacity building particularly for animal Marcos Memorial State University, and
and operation of CenTrAD that shall lead health workers, and render expert Pampanga State Agricultural University.
the conduct of surveillance, diagnosis and consultancy service needs on all facets The CLSU in collaboration
control, mapping, epidemiology, timely of animal health, more importantly on with other SUCs shall supervise
information dissemination, research One-Health, risk communications, and the establishment of the project in
and emergency management in case biosecurity; coordination with the BAI which shall
of emergence transboundary animal • Perform relevant and competitive take the lead in periodic monitoring and
diseases (TADs),” the order read. research programs that directly address evaluation of the project, according to
The project’s source of fund shall TADs, conduct socio-economic and the memorandum order.
be through the Republic Act 11494 value chain studies, improved advocacy, >>>page 17

SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021 13

14 SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021
 NEWS AND UPDATES

Local governments banned

from collecting transport fees

L
ocal government units of goods in their areas,” said Finance for filing of cases,” said Interior Secretary
(LGUs) are now banned Undersecretary Antonette Tionko. Eduardo Año.
Violators will be subpoenaed, A Joint Oversight Committee—
from collecting fees and
investigated and may face charges for composed of the DILG, DOF, ARTA and
taxes for cross-border transport violating Republic Act 11032 or the Ease public and private stakeholders—is tasked
of goods. of Doing Business and Efficient Delivery of to monitor the implementation of the
Government Services Act. memorandum.
The departments of the Interior and “By bridging public service to answer Meanwhile, Labor Secretary Silvestre
Local Government (DILG) and Finance to the needs of the people, we are doing Bello III said his department is inclined
(DoF) and the Anti-Red Tape Authority our mandate by implementing efficient to reject the proposal of the Philippine
(ARTA) on 28 April 2021 signed Joint government service delivery,” said ARTA National Police to require a national police
Memorandum Circular No. 2021-01. director general Jeremiah Belgica. clearance for workers, adding that it goes
The memorandum prohibits LGUs The DILG said there are at least 30 against the principle of ease of doing
from imposing “fees and taxes on goods LGUs that have local orders imposing fees business in government.
passing through their jurisdictions in the and taxes on truckers. According to Bello, the initial response
guise of charges for toll, sticker, discharging, The department is reviewing these of the stakeholders to the proposal is
delivery or mayor’s permit fees.” ordinances. unfavorable.“But it is not yet final,” he said.
“We remind local governments of “LGUs violating the memorandum — Romina Cabrera, Czeriza Valencia,
the limitations on the imposition of fees will be sanctioned. We can also ask the Elizabeth Marcelo, Sheila Crisostomo,
and other charges on the transportation ombudsman and the courts if there is basis Philstar.com

NMIS implements digital licensing application

T
he National Meat submission of incomplete requirements.
Inspection Service (NMIS) Dr. Jocelyn Salvador, NMIS OIC
has recently launched Executive Director, said the development
of NARIS is a “timely innovation as we are
its NMIS Accreditation and
ushering into new normal way of doing
Registration Information System things where face to face interaction is
(NARIS), an online application being limited.”
system for the issuance of license She added that the information system
to operate meat establishments. will deliver a faster and more efficient way
of responding to clients.
Establishments covered by the system Dr. Orlando Ongsotto, NMIS OIC
include slaughterhouses, poultry dressing Deputy Executive Director for regional
plants, meat cutting plants, and cold field operations, shared his personal
storages and warehouse. experience when he tried the system
The NARIS aims to establish an effective during a simulation activity. “The system is
practice and efficient turn-around of the Dr. Jocelyn Salvador, the NMIS OIC Executive user friendly and fast.”
delivery of licensing services by the NMIS. Director, Photo from NMIS But he also advised prospective
NARIS is also a support to Republic applicants to scan the documentary
Act 11032 or the Ease of Doing Business evaluation of application from three days requirements needed for the application
and Efficient Business Delivery Act which to only 20 minutes. One of the advantages before they log into the system. This will
seeks efficiency in doing business in the of the system is that it allows the applicants enable the participants to seamlessly go
government by reducing processing time in to submit the documentary requirements through the system.
application of permits. and sign up to the system when and where The NMIS Accreditation and
The implementation of NARIS it is most convenient to them. NARIS is Registration Division is tasked to manage
will streamline the processing time of also designed to eliminate the step on the the system. – RLR/DA-NMIS

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16 SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021
 NEWS AND UPDATES

BOI approves Biotech Farms

P1.3B hog expansion project

T
he Board of Investments Biotech Farms will have an additional Since the start of the year, consumers
(BOI) has approved the capacity of 54,600 hogs (5.46 million kilos), have been facing high prices of pork meat
Php1.33-billion project of increasing its annual production to 169,000 due to the lack of local production as pigs
Biotech Farms, Inc. to expand its hogs (16.9 million kilos). have been affected by African swine fever.
live hog production. The investment promotion agency said According to the Department of
the expansion project would also put up Agriculture, the country incurred a deficit of
The BOI, in a statement, said Biotech “state-of-the-art facilities with the latest pork meat last year, as demand was higher
Farms would add 2,500 sow-level piggery pig production system similar to what is than the available supply.
farms in its swine facility in South Cotabato. implemented in the United States and Annual growth of local production was
The expansion project will boost the Australia” to ensure healthy and efficient averaging at 2.5%, while pork importation
farm’s annual swine production by 48%, the hog production. grew at a faster rate of 7%.
BOI said. The current swine production “Once operational, the project will help Biotech Farm’s new facility will be
capacity of the facility is at 114,400 hogs in the arrest of the continuously increasing operational by April 2022, the BOI said. –
(11.44 million kilograms). pork importation,” the BOI said. Kris Crismundo, PNA

DA confirms first ASF outbreak in Samar Island

T
he African swine fever lead to new outbreaks without proper MacArthur, Palo, Pastrana, Tanauan, Tacloban
(ASF) has spread to Lope de biosecurity practices,” Torres said in a City, Mayorga, and Jaro. About 16,000 pigs
Vega, Northern Samar, the virtual press briefing. have been depopulated in those areas.
Department of Agriculture (DA) has Authorities have identified over 200 Initial investigation showed the ASF virus
confirmed. pigs in Lope de Vega that will be subjected could have been transmitted to local farms
to depopulation to stop the spread of the in Leyte through an infected boar used for
Elvira Torres, DA Region 8 (Eastern virus.They are located within the 500-meter natural mating and by hog traders who may
Visayas) Technical Director, said it was the radius from the confirmed case. have fed their stocks with contaminated
first confirmed outbreak outside Leyte Lope de Vega recorded the first ASF case food products.
province, prompting the agency to send in Samar Island more than two months after Pigs affected by ASF usually manifest
teams to investigate how ASF reached one the highly-contagious animal disease plagued high fever, distinct reddish areas on the
of the town’s backyard farms. Leyte province, with the first case detected skin of the neck, chest, and extremities, and
“There are reports that the virus was in Abuyog town on 14 January. bleeding of internal organs that could lead
carried by a person who visited the hog In Leyte,ASF has been affecting the towns to death within two to 10 days. – Sarwell
farm. Traveling from a place with ASF could of Abuyog, Javier, Dulag, La Paz, Burauen, Meniano, PNA

Guidelines for transboundary... continued from page 13

The CLSU shall also be responsible further technical assistance to strengthen The fight would also require concerned
for allocation of at least 10,000 square the disease diagnosis in the country,” the government agencies to address the
meters for the construction of the order read. problem. Unlike Covid-19, ASF is harmless
CenTraD project building. The DA has sought for the declaration to humans but is deadly to pigs and there
“BAI will be mainly accountable in of national emergency in a bid to mobilize is currently no vaccine or cure. Data from
the allocation and fund transfer for local government units to prevent the the agriculture office said that the ASF has
CenTrAD’s establishment and operation; further spread of African swine fever (ASF). so far spread to 12 regions, 40 provinces,
in monitoring the fund utilization and When declared, the LGUs will allocate 466 cities and municipalities and 2,425
the project’s progress; and in providing funds to address the threat of the disease. barangays. – Christine Cudis, PNA

SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021 17

18 SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021
 NEWS AND UPDATES

GenSan bans entry of live hogs

from outside Soccsksargen

G
ENERAL SANTOS CITY hog producers, requested such a move in the The practice, which is widely adopted
– The city government has wake of the continuing attempts by some in China, focuses on “spot elimination” or
temporarily banned the traders to bring in hogs from other areas in removing only the affected animals instead of
Mindanao. depopulating.
entry of all live hogs from other
He said they monitored hog shipments “We need to implement stricter
regions, especially in Mindanao, due from Bukidnon, which is still considered free measures to protect our hog industry from
to the continuing threats posed by from ASF but practically “boxed in” by “red” these threats,” he said.
the spread of African swine fever or infected zones. Cases of ASF were detected in Sarangani
(ASF). He added that some local farms have province last year and parts of North
been sourcing grower hogs from several Cotabato but these have been contained as
Dr. Antonio Ephrem Marin, head of breeders based in Bukidnon. reported by the Department of Agriculture.
the City Veterinary Office, said the ban Their monitoring and enforcement teams Hog producers in this city and nearby
was directed by City Mayor Ronnel Rivera have already intercepted at the city entry South Cotabato province ship some 25,000
through Executive Order 15, which further checkpoints three trucks that were loaded to 30,000 heads of live animals and frozen
strengthened the city’s precautionary with 51 hogs. carcass every month to Metro Manila and
measures against the disease. “The shipments have veterinary and other key markets in the country.
Marin said it specifically expanded the transport permits but we still did not The area’s commercial hog inventory is
prohibition on the entry of live hogs and allow them to enter the city as they failed pegged at about 490,000 heads while those
pork products, which previously included to present laboratory test results showing in backyard farms are estimated at 37,000
ASF-hit areas in Luzon and the Davao region. that the animals are ASF-free,” he said in an heads, making it among the top producers in
Under EO 15, he said all live hogs coming interview. the country. –Richelyn Gubalani, PNA
from outside Region 12 (Soccsksargen) Marin said they are worried about the affected by the ASF.
would not be allowed entry in the area while adoption of the “tooth extraction” approach The swine multiplier farm is situated inside
the ASF outbreak persists. by some hog raisers in the other regions that the Jagna Eco Park in barangay Tubodmar in
Marin said his office, in coordination with were affected by the ASF outbreak. Jagna, Bohol. – Carlo Lorenciana, PNA

PCIC doubles indemnity to P10K per ASF-culled hog

T
he Philippine Crop William Dar said. provided they are listed in the Registry
Insurance Corporation The PCIC swine industry insurance System for Basic Sectors in Agriculture,
(PCIC) is increasing to program complements the twin program while for commercial swine raisers, the
Php10,000 its indemnity for hogs of Bantay ASF sa Barangay to effectively premium subsidy will be discounted,”
control, contain and manage the ASF, and said Bernabe.
culled due to the African swine
the Integrated National Swine Production For backyard farmers, PCIC provides
fever (ASF). Initiatives for Recovery and Expansion 1.75% premium for fatteners and 3.5%
(INSPIRE) or hog repopulation program for breeders, which are waived as free.
The move is part of government’s to revive the country’s swine industry. Commercial farmers pay the same
efforts to encourage hog raisers hit premium rates, discounted from the
by ASF to get back to business and Relaxed version of insurance program regular rates of 2.25% and 4%, for their
subsequently stabilize pork supply and PCIC President Atty. Jovy Bernabe stocks to be covered.
prices. said the swine insurance program is a He added that the insurance covers
“Through the PCIC insurance relaxed version of the agency’s regular Php10,000 per head for fatteners,
program, we are doubling the livestock insurance program, offering free Php14,500 per head for breeders, and
indemnification payout for every pig premium payments for backyard raisers Php34,000 per head for parent stocks.
that contracts ASF from Php5,000 to and discounted premium for commercial
Php10,000. With the increased indemnity, hog raisers, and increased indemnity LGU, SUC coverage
hog raisers are encouraged to report payments for culled hogs. Bernabe said that aside from backyard
affected pigs, thus controlling the ASF “For backyard swine raisers, the swine raisers and farmers’ cooperatives,
from spreading,” Agriculture Secretary subsidy will be 100% of the premium cost, >>>page 28

SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021 19

20 SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021
 NEWS AND UPDATES

PRRD signs EO 128 reducing pork import duty

P
resident Rodrigo Duterte stabilize prices of pork meat, and minimize complete publication in the Official Gazette
has issued Executive Order inflation rates,” the EO read. or in a newspaper of general circulation.
(EO) 128 modifying the EO 128 reduces tariff rates for both in- Last month, Duterte asked Congress
rates of import duty on pork quota and out-quota imports of pork to to approve the proposed increase in pork
products. boost pork supply in the country and tame imports to 250,000 metric tons from the
prices of pork products. present 54,210 MT to address the rising
Duterte approved the National Duterte’s latest EO reduces the MFN food prices and boost the supply of pork in
Economic and Development Authority’s tariff rate on pork imports within the the country.
(NEDA) proposed temporary reduction of minimum access volume (MAV) to 5% for On 1 February, Duterte signed EO 124,
the Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariff rates the first three months upon the effectivity which imposes a price ceiling of Php270 per
on fresh, chilled, or frozen pork products. of the order and to 10% for the fourth to kilogram for pork kasim and pigue, Php300
Under EO 128, he noted the need to take 12th month from the current rate of 30%. per kilogram for pork liempo, and Php160
steps to allow the domestic swine industry On the other hand, pork imports per kilogram for dressed chicken until 8
to “fully recover and attain sufficient local outside MAV will be slapped with a lower April.
pork production.” tariff of 15% for the next three months and The DA has also submitted to Duterte
“There is an urgent need to temporarily 20% for the succeeding nine months from a draft proclamation declaring a state of
reduce the Most Favored Nation tariff rates the current 40%, based on EO 128. national emergency in the country to
on fresh, chilled or frozen meat of swine to EO 128, which is effective for a period of address the severe impact of African swine
address the existing pork supply shortage, one year, takes effect immediately upon its fever on the hog industry. – PNA

Senate resolution urges PRRD to withdraw EO 128

T
he Senate Committee author of the resolution, said in a news “Section 6 of the AgriculturalTariffication
of the Whole on 15 April release. Act (Republic Act 8178), which provides
adopted a resolution Drilon said the two policies under EO that the President’s recommendation to
urging President Rodrigo Duterte 128 “can potentially spell the demise of our revise, modify or adjust the MAV in case of
local hog industry, most of them belong to shortages or abnormal price increases in
to withdraw Executive Order 128,
what we call backyard hog raisers.” agricultural products is deemed approved if
which provides for the temporary The bipartisan resolution was co- Congress fails to act after fifteen (15) days
modification of the rates of the authored by Senate President Vicente from receipt is not applicable in this case
import duty for fresh, chilled, or Sotto, Senate President Pro-Tempore Ralph because the President’s recommendation
frozen meat of swine, and to recall Recto, Majority Leader Miguel Zubiri, and was sent to and received by the Senate
the recommendation to increase senators Sonny Angara, Nancy Binay, Pia when it was no longer in session and thus
the minimum access volume Cayetano, Leila de Lima, Risa Hontiveros, cannot act on the recommendation,” it said.
(MAV) of pork. Lito Lapid, Panfilo Lacson, Imee Marcos, The resolution also hit the Department
Manny Pacquiao, Francis Pangilinan, Grace of Agriculture for its failure to satisfactorily
The committee asserted that “the Poe, Richard Gordon, Ramon Revilla Jr., Joel establish through accurate and reliable data
power to fix tariff rates and import Villanueva, and Cynthia Villar. that the country will have 388,790 MT of
quotas fall within the realm of the power On 7 April, Duterte issued EO 128 deficit in the supply of pork for the year,
of taxation, a power which is within the reducing the tariff rate on pork imports. which necessitates the increase in MAV.
sole province of the legislature under the On 26 March, when Congress was The resolution stated that based on the
Constitution.” no longer in session, Duterte also sent testimonies of the resource persons during
“Under our system of laws, the setting Congress a letter to convey his proposal to the first hearing of the committee, there is
of the MAV and the power to set the tariff increase the MAV to 350,000 metric tons reasonable basis to conclude that the new
rates are the functions of Congress. The (MT) from 54,210 MT. set of tariff rates and the huge increase
exercise of the President of the power to The Senate, however, believed that the in the MAV can cause the demise of the
increase the MAV and to lower the tariff proposal to set the MAV from the current local hog industry and cost the government
are delegated authorities of Congress, 54,210 MT to 350,000 MT for 2021 could not billions in foregone revenue.
which may be withdrawn or terminated take into effect because the recommendation It was reported in the media that the
by Congress through a joint resolution,” was sent to and received by the Senate when foregone revenue could reach up to Php11
Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon, it was no longer in session. billion. – PNA

SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021 21

22 SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021
 NEWS AND UPDATES

P10M swine multiplier farm to rise in Bohol

A
Php10-million swine “The establishment of this multiplier
multiplier and technology farm is aimed at sustaining (an) eligible
demonstration farm will source of quality hogs that would be
soon rise in the province of Bohol, available and accessible to the local
the Department of Agriculture in farmers,” Medrano said.
Central Visayas (DA-7) said. DA-7 regional director Salvador
Diputado said the project is also part of
the department’s Integrated National
The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI), Swine Production Initiatives for Recovery
local hog farmers and the local government and Expansion (INSPIRE) and Bantay ASF
unit of Jagna town in Bohol have partnered sa Barangay (BABay ASF) programs.
for this project, which recently broke Diputado also said the BABay ASF
ground. It will improve the swine industry Groundbreaking ceremony for the Php10-million program institutionalizes the quick
in the island and Central Visayas region. swine multiplier and technology demonstration response team against the ASF in the
The multi-million-peso multiplier farm farm in Jagna town, Bohol province. The farm is barangay level which is also aligned with
which was awarded by the DA National aimed at sustaining a reliable source of quality the establishment of the multiplier farm
Livestock Program through ATI-7 to Jagna, hogs that would be available and accessible to for the repopulation of hogs in areas not
Bohol will have a 60-sow level capacity. local farmers. (Photo courtesy of DA-7) affected by the ASF.
In a statement, DA Undersecretary The swine multiplier farm is situated
for Livestock Dr. William Medrano said of livelihood of farmers especially hog inside the Jagna Eco Park in barangay
this is part of the government’s initiative growers affected by the pandemic and Tubodmar in Jagna, Bohol. – Carlo
to help hasten recovery and restoration African swine fever (ASF). Lorenciana, PNA

Legazpi veterinary office

urges hog raisers to insure pigs

T
he City Veterinary Office becomes ill. Estipona said the mayor earlier issued
(CVO) in Legazpi City is “If a pig becomes infected with ASF an Executive Order (EO) preventing hog
encouraging hog raisers (African swine fever) after it was placed buyers from outside Legazpi to buy pigs in
under the insurance coverage, the owner the city to prevent scarcity of meat supply.
who have not registered yet with
could file a claim for the ill but covered ”We are also encouraging the hog
the Philippine Crop Insurance hog,” Estipona said. raisers to engage in ‘Babuyang walang
Corporation (PCIC) and the Meanwhile, he said the CVO has amoy’ to help increase the volume of pigs
Registry System for Basic Sectors offered Mayor Noel E. Rosal the purchase in the community”, he added.
in Agriculture (RSBSA) to soon of live hogs from ASF-free localities to He commended the inspection team
enlist their swine for insurance be distributed to all the meat vendors and all the barangay officials for always
coverage. at a reasonable price to help solve the monitoring the stockyards within their
problem regarding the very low supply of respective villages as part of preventing the
City Veterinary Officer Dr. Emmanuel pigs resulting in high prices of pork in the entry of the infected pigs, which has made
Estipona said around 1,500 hog raisers had market. Legazpi an ASF-free city.
already registered, but more have yet to “Buying of more pigs from other Estipona said he requested the 70
enlist. places would be considered as one of village chiefs to monitor stockyards in their
“They should immediately register in the economic enterprises that will bring respective localities, and issue a barangay
order for them to avail of the insurance additional income on the part of the city clearance certifying the origin of the hog as
benefits for their pigs,” Estipona said. government. This scheme can also control it would serve as a reference for accepting
Under the new insurance coverage the continuous increase of prices of meat pigs for slaughtering services at the Class
scheme, he said, the PCIC would pay products that burden the consuming AA abattoir in order to prevent the entry
Php10,000 per hog that is insured if it public,” he added. of ASF in Legazpi. – Emmanuel Solis, PNA

SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021 23

 NEWS AND UPDATES

P600M swine repopulation program for roll out in

ASF ‘pink’ and ‘yellow’ zones

A
s the African swine fever “First, by effectively controlling the
(ASF) incidence is at ASF and preventing its spread via strict
its lowest level since biosecurity measures, and secondly, by
August 2020, the Department embarking on a massive swine repopulation
of Agriculture (DA) is set to program.”
implement the government’s This early, he thanked several private
Php600-million swine companies, led by the Univet Nutrition
repopulation program, focusing and Animal Healthcare Company
initially on previously affected (UNAHCO), that recently partnered with
areas that are no longer under the DA to implement the “Bantay ASF sa
quarantine and now classified as Barangay” program, and the Land Bank of
“pink” and “yellow” zones. the Philippines as it launched a SWINE
financing program to support the initiative.
“… the ASF incidence is waning, which Sentinel approach The Development Bank of the Philippines
as of 26 March 2021, has registered 253 “We will implement INSPIRE through has also set aside Php12 billion for lending
cases versus 358 cases in January 2021, 330 the ‘sentinel’ approach initially in the first to commercial hog raisers.
cases in February 2021, and the highest eight regions affected by ASF, benefiting Several LGUs are also joining the
level at 1,773 cases in August 2020,” said 8,000 backyard raisers, who will be campaign to revive the hog industry, like
Agriculture Secretary William Dar. grouped into 500 clusters,” said the DA the city government of Lipa in Batangas
The favorable development was chief. The eight regions are: 1, 2, 3, 4A, 5, 11, that is investing an initial Php1.6 million to
reported by Director Reildrin Morales of 12, and Cordillera. embark on a gilt (young female breeder
the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), during The sentinel approach is the limited pig) dispersal program, according to DA-
a recent meeting presided by Secretary placement of pigs to ascertain if there is 4A regional director Vilma Dimaculangan.
Dar with DA regional directors, Director still ASF virus present in a test area. It also allocated Php1 million for animal
Jocelyn Badiola of the DA-Agricultural DA Undersecretary for Livestock disease monitoring and prevention.
Credit and Policy Council (ACPC) and Dr. William Medrano said the project The DA through its International
President Jovy Bernabe of the DA- beneficiaries will each receive three to Training Center on Pig Husbandry
Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation five “sentinel” piglets — including feeds, (ITCPH) is also establishing swine breeder
(PCIC). veterinary drugs, biologics and anti-viral multiplier farms, initially in eight provinces,
The news gives boost to the agents — during the six-month fattening namely: Ilocos Norte, Bataan, Nueva Ecija,
government’s swine repopulation program period. The sentinel component entails an Mindoro, Sorsogon, Southern Leyte, Bohol,
— or the Integrated National Swine initial budget of Php400 million under the and Bukidnon.
Production Initiatives for Recovery and INSPIRE program. Further, the DA-ACPC is extending a
Expansion (INSPIRE) — that will be Another Php200 million is allocated for Php500 million credit program for backyard
implemented in ASF “pink” and “yellow” the INSPIRE multiplier breeder component raisers in “green zones” to expand their
zones, and more extensively in ASF “green” to ensure continuous source of piglets for operations.
zones. the subsequent expansion of the swine Finally, the DA through the PCIC
As per ASF color-coding scheme, repopulation program, said Medrano, will provide free insurance premium to
Morales said “pink” zones serve as buffer, who oversees the DA National Livestock backyard raisers listed under the RSBSA,
where ASF is not present but adjacent to Program. and subsidized premium for commercial
an infected zone. It may also be an area raisers. Should their fatteners die due to
previously infected but the ASF virus has Concerted effort ASF, they will be indemnified at Php10,000
not been detected for at least 90 days, and Dar said reviving the country’s swine per head.
thus has recovered from infected status. industry is a huge challenge, and requires “This early, we sincerely thank our
Other areas where the INSPIRE a concerted effort among all stakeholders. partners — local chief executives, the
program will be implemented are the: “We need the strong and sustained private sector, hog raisers’ groups, and
“yellow” or surveillance zones, which are support of backyard and commercial veterinary associations — for extending
ASF-free but adjacent to “yellow” zones; raisers, local government units (LGUs), and their strong support to revive the
and “light green” and “dark green” zones, the private sector to revive the industry,” country’s swine industry,” Dar said. – DA
which are free from ASF. said the DA chief. StratComms

24 SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021

 PEOPLE... PLACES... EVENTS...

NMIS
JANUARY GMM. issues safety guidelines
on online meat selling, delivery
Gov’t targets Nov
The Pork Producers Federation of the Philippines, Inc. (Pork Producers) continued to hold its regular general membership operations
of
meeting through Zoom, its with the world still first Triple The meeting held
in the middle of a pandemic. A on 07 January 2021 slaughterhouse
was hosted
First border inspection facility of imported
by President Edwin Chen and sponsored by Newgen Marketing, Inc.meat, agri products to rise soonNullignam earum qui aut
qui od ulpa solorro vitaquis ium ex et vendusam qui occabor eperio. Bustia perum
Opening remarks was given by Pork Producers Chair Eliseo Yu while the opening prayer was made by CEVIPPCO animod qui undant.
President Paul Holaysan.To start the webinar series for 2021, the presentation titled “2021: Fresh Start and New Beginnings”or-
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estis
was ipis
given sitionem
by Dr. Rodger ium lab inus
Campbell ma a eume eossequi occullor sunt landerc iatur, aut facil inctec-
of Jefo/Newgen.
ta is After
repretheeveliate
presentation, Pork Producers aut
perum dolorit, ut assi and
officers a verume
membersladiscussed
cus debis
the modi
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situationaperchilibus doluptiur?
of the pork industry.
Members from the different parts of the country were asked to provide an update on the state of the pork sector inomniam
Ximus aut lam re omnistr uptatio beate lacepudio toremporem faccuptatet rection sequunt im qui ut their
exername
respectiveeaquam quuntion
areas, especially on commolo
the effects ofruptam, tempor
the African swinesunto
fever. consed et vid quiam haris a dolorpo reprorro tem
ex et la nitions edisque pere, oditaerit aliquam hitatur, nam, sum ius estem quodis ipis ditatur sit, suntias atur?
Entem utescit unt rem qui ut restis recae et quia qui reiciti blaccuptatur resto estionsequid ut esequam que

SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021 25

 PEOPLE... PLACES... EVENTS...

NMIS
FEBRUARY GMM. issues safety guidelines
o
The Pork Producers Solutions Webinar topic during the February general membership meeting through Zoom was
presented by Michael Felipe E. Quilitis, DVM, DPCSP. Held on 04 February 2021, Dr. Quilitis discussed the topic “Are you
confident with your piglet’s haemoglobin level? A 2020 Philippines Initial Survey.”
CEVIPPCO President Paul Holaysan opened the meeting with a prayer. Pork Producers President Edwin Chen gave his
report on the overall situation of the pork sector, and thanked the officers and members who always take time to attend
the Zoom GMM meetings.
Pork Producers officers and members also gave a price update and reported on the state of the pork sector in their
respective areas.
The February GMM was sponsored by Ceva Animal Health (Philippines), Inc.

26 SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021

 PEOPLE... PLACES... EVENTS...

NMIS
MARCH GMM. issues safety guidelines
on online meat selling, delivery
Gov’t targets Nov
The Pork Producers Federation of the Philippines, Inc. held is regular Zoom general membership meeting on 04 March 2021. operations
of
CEVIPPCO its Holaysan opened the
President Paul first
meeting with a prayer.Triple A slaughterhouse
First border inspection facility of imported meat, agri products to rise soonNullignam earum
The month’s webinar featured the Roadshow Presentation of the DA National Livestock Program. Dr. Ruth Miclat-Sonaco, ITCPH qui aut
quiDirector
od ulpa solorro vitaquis ium ex et vendusam qui occabor eperio. Bustia perum animod
and National Livestock Program Director, discussed the Department of Agriculture’s Repopulation Program followed qui undant.
by
presentations by the Land Bank of the Philippines and Development Bank of the Philippines on available loan programs for porkor-
Isquuntia que pre pa quo cus maio magnaturi corempel magnatu recaborro officta dignimp
estis ipis The
producers. sitionem
Philippineium
Crop lab inusCorporation
Insurance ma a eume eossequi
also talked about theoccullor sunt landerc
insurance program iatur, aut
for pork producers being facil
providedinctec-
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ta the
is institution.
repre eveliate perum dolorit, ut aut assi a verume la cus debis modi utatem aperchilibus doluptiur?
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President uptatio
Edwin Chen beate lacepudio
then gave his report,toremporem faccuptatet
followed by a situation reportrection
and pricesequunt im by
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ut omniam
and
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members in their respective areas. commolo ruptam, tempor sunto consed et vid quiam haris a dolorpo reprorro tem
ex et la nitions edisque pere, oditaerit aliquam hitatur, nam, sum ius estem quodis ipis ditatur sit, suntias atur?
Entem utescit unt rem qui ut restis recae et quia qui reiciti blaccuptatur resto estionsequid ut esequam que

SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021 27

 NEWS AND UPDATES

Private firms join ASF control program

to revive hog industry

L
eading animal health and partners and assign a focal person that will be with you Mr. Secretary, and hope
nutrition companies and will coordinate with the DA’s Bureau we will jointly succeed,” Alba said.
agribusinesses concretized of Animal Industry (BAI), National UNAHCO, a corporation engaged in
their strong support by forging a Livestock Program (NLP), and Regional the business of animal health care and
memorandum of understanding Field Offices (RFOs). nutrition, has been providing extension
(MoU) with the Department The industry partners include the support services such as technical
of Agriculture (DA) to jointly Philippine College of Swine Practitioners support to livestock raisers, conduct
undertake a twin program to (PCSP), International Training Center on of seminars, and other information and
effectively control, manage and Pig Husbandry (ITCPH), Pig Improvement education campaigns in rural areas.
contain the African swine fever Company (PIC), Provimi: Cargill, Novus In support of the ongoing DA
(ASF) and revive the country’s International, Kemin Industries, Phil. programs to revive the hog industry,
hog industry. Association of Feed Millers, Inc. (PAFMI), Alba said UNAHCO has earlier launched
and SGS Philippines. related programs such as the “Pigkitaan
Agriculture Secretary William “The extent of ASF has reached an Natin Muli” swine repopulation under
Dar and Univet Nutrition and Animal alarming proportion and the DA openly the Pigrolac Hog Feeds and the “Singko
Healthcare Company (UNAHCO) welcomes our help. This is a class Kasado Biosecurity Campaign” for
President Ricardo Alba led the signing example of public and private helping backyard hog raisers.
of the MoU, along with several other each other,” Alba said. “I wish to reiterate my call on our
private sector partners, to implement Based on the MoU, UNAHCO will partners – the local government units
the Bantay ASF sa Barangay (BABay lead industry partners to support the (LGUs), hog industry stakeholders,
ASF) and the Integrated National Swine DA in implementing the BABay ASF sa veterinary associations, universities,
Production Initiatives for Recovery and Barangay and INSPIRE twin program and research institutions, farmers’
Expansion (INSPIRE) program at the with the provision of breeders, gilts, cooperatives and associations, and
DA-BSWM convention hall in Quezon and piglets, disinfectants, vitamin backyard and commercial hog raisers
City. supplements, technology transfer, and – to join us implement stringent and
“I am confident that with this technical manpower for coordination sustainable biosecurity measures from
partnership, we can attain our goal of and mobilization. here on,” Secretary Dar said.
reviving the country’s swine sector, “We stand committed, after being He also highlighted the key role and
which is very crucial in our food security in the industry for 54 years. Again, we responsibility of LGUs for the successful
efforts,” Dar said. would like to reassure the DA under the implementation of the BABay ASF program,
UNAHCO will create a working leadership of Secretary William Dar, of as it is implemented right at the barangay
group composed of its industry our strong and continued support. We level. – Gumamela Celes Bejarin, DA-AFID

PCIC doubles indemnity... continued from page 17

the insurance program will also cover set by the Philippine College of Swine The government is encouraging
local government units (LGUs), and Practitioners,” said Bernabe. backyard and commercial hog raisers
state colleges and universities, which “The provincial and municipal to secure insurance packages and take
implement respective hog fattening and governments that have jurisdiction over advantage of the free and discounted
breeding programs. the farms of the beneficiaries must have insurance premium offered by PCIC to
“The hog farms must be registered adopted harmonized ordinance relevant regain the hog raisers’ livelihood and
with the LGU, which in turn, must to the prevention of ASF. Likewise, the businesses, and revive the ASF-stricken
have organized the Bantay ASF sa municipal government must implement swine sector.
Barangay. Also, their operations must be and regularly update the Municipal ASF The PCIC is the sole and exclusive
compliant with the Biosecurity Level 1 Control and Prevention Plan, aligned government agricultural insurance firm
standards or a level of farm biosecurity with the initiatives of the DA Regional in the country. – Rita dela Cruz, DA
in compliance with minimum standards Field Office,” he added. StratComms

28 SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021

 Processed meat shipment seized at Zambo port

T
he Office of the City Veterinarian products were shipped from Cebu to Isabela witnessed by the representatives from the
(OCVet) in Zamboanga City City in Basilan province via Zamboanga City Department of Agriculture, FDA, and other
has disposed 345 kilos of seized when the cargo was intercepted at the local government agencies.
undocumented processed meat port. “This measure is being done to keep
products as the office tightened its The shipment was seized after the shipper Zamboanga City ASF-free,” he said, adding
watch against African swine fever failed to present the required veterinary that meat products coming from ASF-free
(ASF). shipping permits as well as authorization areas may be shipped to the city provided the
Dr.Arnedo Agbayani, OCVet animal health from the Food and Drug Administration shipper must have the required documents.
services division chief, said the processed (FDA). The OCVet and other concerned
pork and chicken chorizo were confiscated Agbayani said the confiscated items government agencies control the entry of
at the local wharf. were properly disposed of at the Veterinary meat and its by-product to ensure the city
Agbayani said the processed meat Quarantine Office by the OCVet and remains ASF-free. – R.G. Antonet Go, PNA

SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021 29

30 SWINE MAGAZINE | Feb-Apr 2021