The local government of Quezon City announced Thursday that it has lifted the temporary ban imposed on 14 lechon shops in La Loma after confirming the establishments are now free of the African swine fever (ASF) virus.

To recall, the local government had ordered the temporary closure of the shops several weeks ago after they were affected by ASF. The businesses conducted daily disinfection of their facilities for one week with the aid of the City Veterinary Department and the QC Health Department.

“The local government is pleased to report that there is no longer any ASF virus in the 14 lechon establishments in La Loma, Quezon City,” the local government said in a statement.

In addition to the disinfection, the 14 establishments were instructed to comply with all necessary sanitary, safety and health protocols.

The shop owners had previously expressed concern that the closure order came at a critical time amid the scheduling of numerous Christmas parties.

“Feeling back to normal operation soon and confident to have safe lechons in coming holidays,” Kap. Maca of Ping-Ping Litson store told DAILY TRIBUNE regarding the lifting order.

Three of the establishments had already received lifting orders and were permitted to resume operations after complying with regulations set by the City Health and City Veterinary departments.

The city government stated it will continue to assist business owners to ensure they comply with all protocols and maintain the quality of products sourced from La Loma.