Capiz bans entry of pigs, pork from Iloilo, Negros over ASF concerns

ILOILO CITY, Philippines — The provincial government of Capiz has imposed a ban on the entry of live pigs, pork, pork products, and related livestock shipments originating from or passing through Iloilo Province and Negros Island to protect its swine industry from the threat of African swine fever (ASF).

The order was formalized through Executive Order No. 21, Series of 2026, signed by Gov. Fredenil H. Castro on June 24, 2026, and took effect immediately upon issuance.

The executive order prohibits the entry into Capiz of live pigs, pork, pork products and byproducts, as well as hog carriers or transport vehicles and hog traders coming from, passing through, or transporting products processed or manufactured in ASF-positive and ASF-suspected areas, specifically Iloilo Province and Negros Island.

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READ: Over 500 pigs dead as new ASF outbreak reported in Negros Occidental

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According to the order, the Department of Agriculture has confirmed the continued presence and spread of suspected African swine fever cases in neighboring areas, prompting local governments to strengthen biosecurity and quarantine measures to prevent the virus from reaching unaffected provinces.

The Capiz provincial government said the restrictions are intended to protect the local hog industry, safeguard the livelihoods of Capiz hog raisers, and preserve provincial food security against the economic and agricultural impact of ASF.

READ: DA eyes Q3 rollout of ASF vaccine

The order also cited records indicating that ASF-positive and suspected cases have been detected in several parts of the country, including Iloilo Province and Negros Island, posing a potential risk to the province’s swine population if left unchecked.

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Under the directive, authorities manning border checkpoints may confiscate, dispose of, or return to the point of origin, at the owner’s expense, prohibited animals, pork products and related commodities found entering Capiz from the covered areas.

Provincial border controls will remain in place at entry points, particularly in the municipalities of Tapaz, Dumarao, Pilar and Maayon, while the National Veterinary Quarantine Services will continue implementing inspection measures at the province’s sea and air ports.

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The executive order repealed or modified inconsistent provisions of Executive Order No. 32, Series of 2026, and will remain in effect until revoked or repealed.

The latest restriction comes as several local government units across Western Visayas continue tightening quarantine measures to contain the spread of African swine fever and protect the region’s hog industry. /cb

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