‘Don’t be complacent vs ASF’

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD City – Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson called on Negrenses not to put their guard down and continue to be vigilant against the African Swine Fever (ASF) as the province remains free of the infection.

“We are in the middle of Panay and Cebu where cases of ASF are reported, it is a challenge to remain ASF-free,” Lacson told reporters in an interview during the weekend.

Lacson was a guest at the opening program of the Hinuptanan Festival in Moises Padilla town where ASF-free lechon (roasted pig) were highlighted.

He lamented that until there is no reply yet from Cebu Governor Gwen Garcia regarding the appeal of hog raisers from the province to allow their hogs to be transported to Leyte via Cebu.

“I will issue an executive order soon to further strengthen our borders,” the governor said.

He said that the Lechon Festival of Moises Padilla is a sign that the province is still ASF-free.

“Yes, it’s a sign but we should not be complacent,” the governor said.

He reiterated that “we are in the middle of Panay and Cebu, it makes it more difficult to protect our borders.”