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The Department of Agriculture has issued new rules to strengthen the country’s defenses against African swine fever while ensuring safe importation of swine and pork products
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The guidelines, outlined in DA Administrative Circular 12, introduce ASF regionalization, allowing the recognition of ASF-free zones within accredited exporting countries, in line with World Organisation for Animal Health standards
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Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said the order balances food security with strict animal health safeguards
The Department of Agriculture (DA) has issued new rules to strengthen the country’s defenses against African swine fever (ASF) while ensuring safe importation of swine and pork products.
The guidelines, outlined in DA Administrative Circular (AC) No. 12, introduce ASF regionalization, allowing the recognition of ASF-free zones within accredited exporting countries, in line with World Organisation 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,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said in a statement.
Tiu Laurel said the order protects local producers while allowing responsible, science-based trade, highlighting the DA’s commitment to preventing ASF outbreaks without disrupting international commerce.
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Only DA-accredited countries may apply for ASF regionalization recognition. Exporting countries’ Competent Veterinary Authority must provide detailed 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.
After evaluation, BAI will notify the exporting country of the results. Approved applications include a draft ASF Regionalization Agreement covering animal health requirements and import terms and conditions, as well as a Veterinary Health Certificate template.
Bilateral recognition begins once both countries’ Chief Veterinary Officers sign the agreement and the DA issues a Memorandum Order.
It should be noted that commodities under the DA’s existing export accreditation are eligible, and exporting countries must submit annual ASF status reports detailing surveillance, monitoring, and control efforts.
Live swine must show no clinical ASF signs, originate from ASF-free regions, and avoid restricted zones during transport. Swine products must come from ASF-free regions, be transported directly to approved slaughterhouses in sealed vehicles, and undergo ante- and post-mortem inspections with favorable results, following WOAH standards.
AC No. 12 mandates a review after two years to ensure regulations remain relevant and effective. Any previous circulars or rules inconsistent with the new order are repealed or modified accordingly.
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