DA-10 holds consultation-meeting for transboundary animal diseases

 

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – To enhance the region’s preparedness and response to threats of critical animal diseases, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10), through its Regulatory Division, convened a multi-stakeholder consultation-meeting on Transboundary Animal Diseases (TAD) on June 26, in this city.

DA-10 Regulatory Division chief Eduardo N. Pit, PhD said the continued spread of TAD, such as Avian Influenza (AI), African Swine Fever (ASF), and Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), poses significant challenges to the livestock and poultry industry.

“These diseases not only disrupt food supply chains and threaten livelihood but they also undermine public confidence and our efforts towards achieving Sustainable Agriculture Development; which is why this consultative meeting is both timely and vital to collectively evaluate our strategies, strengthen our coordination mechanisms, and align our actions across sectors.” Dr. Pit said.

Technical experts from the National Veterinary Quarantine Service, National Meat Inspection Service, and Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau were invited to the consultation-meeting to apprise government stakeholders about livestock and poultry movement protocols, ASF surveillance in slaughterhouses, and proper identification and disposal of ASF-affected animals and wastes.

“We hope that through this meeting, we will be able to build a more integrated and responsive framework for disease surveillance, reporting, and biosecurity implementation, as well as hear recommendations from the ground, especially those that can enhance local governments’ capabilities and community engagement in animal health programs.” Dr. Pit emphasized.

The consultation was attended by Provincial and City Veterinary Officers from across Northern Mindanao, DA-10 Provincial Operations Center chiefs and representatives, and staff from the DA-10 Regional Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory and Regulatory Division. # (CRS)