Manila: Authorities have intensified surveillance, monitoring, and biosecurity measures to contain the spread of African swine fever (ASF) in Lamitan City, Basilan.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lamitan City's veterinarian Dr. Bryan Azute reported that the ASF disease this month has now affected 113 hog raisers, with 284 pigs reported dead. Azute stated that the figures were based on laboratory results confirming that swine blood samples collected from several barangays in Lamitan City tested positive for ASF.

Veterinary personnel continue to monitor hogs, conduct inspections, and educate backyard raisers on proper biosecurity practices. Azute mentioned that the ongoing epidemiological investigation indicates that the disease may have originated in Zamboanga City. The investigation revealed that the first suspected ASF case occurred in Barangay Calugusan, where a hog raiser was allegedly involved in trading swine from Zamboanga City.

Azute clarified that the finding is based on current disease surveillance and contact-tracing efforts, while the investigation continues to determine the complete transmission chain of ASF. Meanwhile, authorities are urging all hog raisers to immediately report any sick or dead hogs to the Lamitan City Veterinary Office and to refrain from transporting or selling livestock from affected areas without proper authorization.

Azute also reminded the public that the ASF poses no risk to humans and is not a food safety concern. However, the disease is highly contagious among hogs and can cause significant losses to the local swine industry if not contained immediately.