ITOGON, Benguet — More than 70 pigs have tested positive for African Swine Fever in Itogon, prompting local officials to begin culling operations to contain the highly contagious viral disease, the municipal veterinarian said Friday.

The outbreak was detected in Barangay Tuding, according to Municipal Veterinarian Dr. Franklin P. Balanban.

Blood samples analyzed by the Regional Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory confirmed the infections.

Balanban announced that depopulation operations have started, affecting livestock owned by seven backyard hog raisers across the sitios of Baguio Gold, Yanggacan and Cupao.

Authorities identified several potential sources for the outbreak, including swill feeding, the sale of infected pork, the movement of farmers, contaminated river water, and direct contact with infected vehicles or footwear.

In response to the outbreak, Itogon Mayor Bernard Waclin issued an executive order Wednesday imposing strict regulations on the movement of live swine and pork products throughout the municipality.

The municipal government has partnered with the Provincial Veterinary Office and village officials to implement control measures, including the mass disinfection of affected pigpens and farm premises.

Balanban urged swine raisers to enhance farm biosecurity by restricting movement between different piggeries and avoiding pork purchases from unverified sources.

Authorities have requested that residents immediately report any suspected cases to prevent the virus from spreading to neighboring areas.