Quezon city: The Quezon City government has temporarily shut down 14 lechon (roasted pig) stores in La Loma after some pigs tested positive for African swine fever (ASF).

According to Philippines News Agency, this discovery was made during the regular monitoring of food establishments conducted by the City Veterinary Department (CVD) and the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) on Wednesday.

The city’s Business Permits and Licensing Department issued Temporary Closure Orders on Wednesday evening, based on the recommendation of the BAI, CVD, and the City Health Department. The Quezon City government emphasized that this is an isolated case and assured the public that disinfection and checkpoint measures are being implemented to prevent the spread of the disease.

ASF is a highly contagious viral disease among pigs but poses no risk to humans. The city government has started the disinfection process in the affected areas in La Loma and set up checkpoints to control the movement of pigs to and from the area.

A dialogue was held with the affected business owners on Thursday to discuss health, safety, and operational concerns. The city government committed to assisting affected establishments and ensuring that they adhere to health and safety protocols to resume operations and continue offering quality products to the public.

The public is urged to remain vigilant and discerning when purchasing food products to safeguard their health and welfare.