Cebu Launches Extensive Pig Surveillance for Export Certification
The Cebu Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) has officially commenced a comprehensive surveillance and monitoring program targeting pigs across the entire province. This initiative aims to obtain certification that will permit local pig raisers to transport and sell their livestock beyond the island of Cebu.
Supporting Small-Scale Pig Raisers
According to Dr. Mary Rose Vincoy, the head of the PVO, this program aligns with the directive of Governor Pam Baricuatro to assist small-scale pig raisers who have been affected by restrictions on animal movement. "The position of the Cebu Government now under Governor Pam is to address this concern to help the small pig raisers so they can move and then sell outside Cebu," Vincoy stated during a press briefing on Monday, March 2, 2026.
Laboratory Results for Department of Agriculture
Vincoy explained that the surveillance seeks to gather laboratory results, which will be submitted to the Department of Agriculture (DA) as part of the requirements for certification. "We need to support them. This surveillance is conducted to provide supporting results to the DA, and then we can be granted certification for use in movement or for shipping permits," she added.
Vincoy revealed that the collection of specimens will begin shortly. Once Cebu is declared a "green zone," pigs will be allowed to travel, provided they have shipping permits and comply with national guidelines.
Current Requirements for Pig Transport
Currently, pig raisers are required to obtain shipping permits from the Bureau of Animal Industry Quarantine when transporting pigs from Cebu to other areas. This new surveillance program is expected to streamline the process and enhance market access for local farmers.
