Thursday, May 15, 2008 City reorganizes bird flu task force By Reynaldo G. Navales
ANGELES CITY -- In light of the growing concern about avian influenza or bird flu and its possible adverse effect on the country, particularly Angeles City, Mayor Francis Nepomuceno reorganized the Angeles City Avian Influenza Task Force (ACAITF) and establishing emergency control measures to prevent the spread of the deadly virus.
Nepomuceno issued Executive Order (EO) 16, Series of 2008 to place additional measures to keep the city bird flu free, especially during the arrival of migratory birds in the country which usually starts in the month of September until the month of April.
The mayor said the re-organization of the anti–bird flu task force is mandated by the Article II, Section 15 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution that supplement Section 16 of the Local Government Code of 1991 to obligate the state and local government units to protect and promote the health and safety of the people with in their jurisdictions.
Among the functions of the task force are the following: Implement of the Avian Influenza Protection Program (AIPP) in Angeles City as prepared by the National Avian Influenza Task Force (NAITF); formule an Avian Influenza Preparedness and Response Plan; and conduct information disseminations on avian influenza, prevention, containment and control in the barangays.
The task force prohibits the sale of fowls like pet birds, wild birds, game fowls and birds coming from countries affected by bird flu; catching, getting near or keeping in captivity wild birds; sale of live chickens in the market while there is a threat of bird flu; and placing of chicken, ducks and pigs together in one area.
The mayor chairs the task force; City Administrator Dr. Irineo Alvaro stands as vice chairman.
The task force will oversee the implementation of all laws relative to the program, recommend measures for effective implementation and render period monitoring reports.
