Negros oriental: The Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) in Negros Oriental has culled 539 pigs throughout July and August in an effort to curb the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF), a senior official disclosed on Tuesday. The culling operation targeted both ASF-positive pigs and those at risk due to proximity to infected animals.

According to Philippines News Agency, Vernon Lumbania, the PVO officer-in-charge, noted that despite ongoing containment measures, ASF cases continue to emerge in the province. The latest weekly report, dated August 28, documented active ASF cases in Valencia (1), Pamplona (40), Siaton (24), and Bayawan City (42).

The pigs culled during this period were sourced from multiple locations, with Bayawan City accounting for the highest number at 240 heads, followed by Tanjay City with 145, Amlan with 58, and Siaton with 45. Other areas affected included Valencia with 43 heads and Zamboanguita with 6. Notably, no new ASF cases have been reported in La Libertad, Dauin, Mabinay, Canlaon City, and Sta. Catalina.

Lumbania further reported new ASF cases this week in Bayawan City, Pamplona, and Valencia, signaling the persistent threat of the virus. These cases will be included in the PVO's comprehensive report scheduled for release on Friday. In response to the ongoing outbreak, the PVO continues to collect blood samples from regions with detected ASF cases as part of its disease monitoring and containment strategy.