ILOILO CITY — Local governments in Western Visayas are stepping up measures against African Swine Fever (ASF), with Bacolod City reactivating its ASF Task Force and the Province of Aklan imposing a temporary ban on the entry of live hogs and pork products from ASF-affected areas.

In Bacolod City, Mayor Greg Gasataya issued an executive order reconstituting the ASF Task Force to strengthen the city's defense against the highly contagious animal disease that continues to threaten the swine industry.

The task force is mandated to implement a more coordinated and aggressive response, including the formulation of contingency plans, intensified information and education campaigns, investigation of suspected ASF cases, and the enforcement of quarantine, movement control, and biosecurity protocols.

The city government said the initiative aims to safeguard hog raisers, meat vendors, consumers, and other stakeholders whose livelihoods depend on the local swine industry.

Gasataya also called on hog raisers, traders, transporters, and consumers to cooperate with authorities by complying with regulations and immediately reporting suspected ASF cases or questionable pork products.

Meanwhile, the Provincial Government of Aklan has temporarily prohibited the entry and transport of live pigs, pork, and pork-derived products originating from or passing through Capiz, Iloilo, and the provinces under the Negros Island Region (NIR).

The restriction, contained in Executive Order No. 044, Series of 2026, forms part of the province’s intensified efforts to prevent the entry and spread of ASF within Aklan.

Under the order, veterinary quarantine inspections and border control operations have been strengthened at ports, airports, and other entry points across the province. Shipments allowed entry must be accompanied by a Certificate of Acceptance and other required veterinary documents.

Authorities warned that shipments found violating the order may be intercepted, confiscated, or returned to their point of origin.

Provincial officials said the stricter controls are necessary to protect Aklan’s swine industry and preserve the livelihood of thousands of hog raisers amid continuing ASF threats in several parts of the country.