SIXTY-SEVEN hog raisers from 14 local government units received ₱3.852 million in indemnification assistance for losses caused by African Swine Fever (ASF).
The Department of Agriculture-Bohol (DA-Bohol), in partnership with the Provincial Government of Bohol (PGBh) through the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian (OPV), released the assistance during a ceremony held on August 19 at the APC Hall in Tagbilaran City.
The indemnification covered 515 swine heads affected by ASF, providing financial support to eligible raisers as part of government efforts to help revive Bohol’s hog industry and strengthen recovery initiatives in affected communities.
In his welcome remarks, DA-Bohol representative Roman Dabalos assured beneficiaries that the agency remains committed to compensating all qualified ASF-affected raisers.
He emphasized the importance of sustaining recovery efforts for the province’s hog industry while underscoring the critical role of biosecurity measures in preventing future outbreaks.
Among the beneficiaries was Hazel Joy Nambatac of Barangay Anas, Valencia, who expressed gratitude for the assistance received.
“Nagpasalamat ko sa mga ahensya nga nagpaluyo niini nga naa’y tabang nga gihatag diri sa amoa. Makatabang ni namo sa pag sugod ug balik aron maka ahon mi magamay,” Nambatac said.
Vice Governor Nick Besas encouraged continued cooperation among stakeholders to eliminate ASF and reiterated the importance of strict compliance with biosecurity protocols to protect the province’s swine industry.
To further strengthen disease prevention efforts, Provincial Veterinarian Alden Cutamora presented biosecurity measures and protocols to educate hog raisers.
He also discussed the province’s ASF Recovery Program activities, including reclassification campaigns and municipal advisory coordination aimed at supporting the gradual recovery of the livestock sector.
The indemnification release forms part of broader initiatives under the leadership of Gov. Aris Aumentado to help affected farmers recover their livelihoods while enhancing animal health and food security across Bohol, a UNESCO Global Geopark.
The activity supports the Capitol’s Strategic Change Agenda, particularly its focus on Climate-Smart Agriculture and Fisheries, by strengthening livestock resilience, promoting responsible animal health practices, and accelerating the recovery of the province’s hog industry. (PIMO/JFP)
