THE Provincial Government of Benguet has assured that there is sufficient supply of pigs for the Grand Cañao as part of the month-long celebration of Adivay.

"It's not affected. We have our own pigs in Benguet," stated Governor Melchor Diclas when asked on the possible effect of African Swine Fever (ASF) in this year's Adivay Festival.

Previously, the provincial government released Executive Order 2019-36 declaring a temporary ban on the entry of live pigs, fresh and frozen pork, and pork products from provinces and cities affected by ASF.

Diclas said ASF is not transferable to humans, however, there is a need to prevent the entry of the disease to protect the province’s swine industry.

During the Grand Cañao on November 23, the 13 towns of Benguet will meet at the province’ sports complex in Wangal, La Trinidad.

The governor assured Benguet has enough supply of pigs for the festival and the daily needs of stakeholders.

At least seven quarantine checkpoints with inspectors were set up along roads of the province in Marcos Highway, Kennon Road, Tadiangan, and Banangan in Sablan; Bokod and Bangao in Buguias; and Colalo in Mankayan.

Diclas added the government is being vigilant in protecting the livelihood of its residents.

"Our purpose (on the ban) is not to curtail the business but to safeguard the hog raisers of Benguet province," he added.

A simulation and contingency plan review in the event ASF occurs was earlier conducted for local government units, Provincial Government, and Provincial Veterinary Office by the Bureau of Animal Industry.

As of September 29, a total of 27,361 kilograms of pork and assorted meat products and 35 hogs were denied entry in violation of the province’s temporary ban of swine, pork and pork products.

The pork commodity came from various areas of Pangasinan, Angeles, San Fernando, and Mabalacat in Pampanga; Antipolo, Rizal; Balintawak in Quezon City; and Pasig City, Marikina City, and Bulacan.