Forty-two live pigs from Ayungon, Negros Oriental, were turned back upon arrival at Tangil Wharf in Dumanjug town early Wednesday, July 8, 2026, as authorities enforced a strict ban on pork products from the Negros Island Region due to African Swine Fever (ASF) concerns.
Immediate Enforcement of Executive Order
The shipment was intercepted by the local government unit (LGU) task force of Dumanjug, which promptly ordered the return of the livestock to its point of origin. The action aligns with Executive Order No. 39 issued by Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro, which imposes a 45-day prohibition on the entry of all live pigs and pork products from the Negros Island Region, regardless of accompanying documentation.
Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Mary Rose Vincoy emphasized the strictness of the ban: "It's not about the document, it's about the temporary ban. So, whether there's a document or not, the fact that it's closed, closed gyud siya."
Sufficient Pork Supply Assured
The Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) assured the public that Central Visayas, particularly Cebu, has an adequate supply of pork, alleviating concerns over potential shortages. Surveillance and monitoring efforts continue to ensure Cebu remains ASF-free.
This incident underscores the heightened vigilance of local authorities in preventing the spread of ASF, which poses a significant threat to the swine industry and food security in the region.
