Business · Philippines Bureau
Ilocos provinces make strides in African swine fever recovery efforts
Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur have successfully transitioned their African swine fever-affected areas to lower-risk zones, signaling progress in rehabilitation of the regional pig farming industry. The provinces have moved all previously infected areas from red zones to pink or yellow classifications, according to the Department.
LSN Philippines ·
SAN ILDEFONSO, Ilocos Sur — The Ilocos region is showing signs of recovery from the African swine fever (ASF) outbreak that has plagued local pig producers in recent years.
Both Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur have moved their ASF-affected areas out of red zones, which indicate active infection, into pink zones representing buffer areas or yellow zones designated for surveillance, the Department confirmed.
The reclassification reflects substantial progress in containing and managing the disease that has devastated hog farming communities across the country. The shift in zone status indicates that infection risks have diminished significantly in previously affected localities.
The recovery marks a turning point for local swine producers who have faced considerable economic hardship during the outbreak. Officials hope the improved biosecurity measures and disease management protocols will support the gradual rehabilitation and expansion of pig farming operations in the two provinces.
The Department continues to monitor the situation closely as the Ilocos region works toward full industry recovery and enhanced disease prevention frameworks.