THE Negros Occidental provincial task force against African Swine Fever (ASF) has recommended continuing the existing 90-day ban on pork and pork products originating from Luzon.
The recommendation was made after the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has been reported to issue a memorandum encouraging to lift the ban on processed pork products.
A document signed by Provincial Veterinary Officer Dr. Renante Decena and concurred by Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson stated that the provincial task force countered that any premature lifting will pose serious and irreversible damage to the province's P6 billion worth swine industry.
DILG Secretary Eduardo Año is mulling to issue a memorandum to all local government units to lift the ban on processed pork products registered with the Food and Drugs Administration.
It added the task force will move for the reconsideration of any memorandum as it is inimical to the food security program of Negros Occidental, adding the full implementation of the 90-day ban must be push forward.
Earlier this month, Lacson said he is considering extending the ongoing 90-day pork ban amid concerns over the ASF.
According to the governor, an extension is being mulled as the entry of imported pork from nations not affected by ASF will be banned, especially if they passed through the Port of Manila.
He also said an extension would be implemented if the virus continues to spread after the 90-day ban.