Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro signed Executive Order 44 extending the province’s ban on live hogs and pork products from Negros Island and other African Swine Fever-affected areas for an additional 45 days.

The measure aims to protect Cebu’s P22- billion hog industry as African swine fever cases continue to rise in Negros Oriental. The viral disease, which affects pigs, poses a significant threat to local livestock populations.

Executive Order 44 applies to all commercial and personal shipments of live hogs, fresh or frozen pork, and processed pork products originating from Negros Island and other infected zones.

Officials cited Negros Island’s proximity to Cebu and the constant movement of people and cargo as major factors requiring heightened vigilance at all maritime ports and entry points. The primary objective is to prevent the viral disease from re-entering the province.