Quezon prov mobilizes to safeguard agriculture from ASF, Army Worms

By Nimfa Estrellado Quezon Gov. Tan along with Dr. Flomella Caguicla and Dr. Ana Clarissa Mariano during the recent meeting with various sta...

By Nimfa Estrellado

Quezon Gov. Tan along with Dr. Flomella Caguicla and Dr. Ana Clarissa Mariano during the recent meeting with various stakeholders to discuss strategies for managing the ASF outbreak in the province. (Photo from Office of the Provincial Veterinarian - Quezon )

LUCENA CITY, Quezon - To combat the dual threats of African Swine Fever (ASF) and army worms, Quezon Province recently held a crucial two-day meeting on August 9th and 12th to combat the dual threats of African Swine Fever (ASF) and army worms .

The meeting aimed to strategize on prevention measures, early detection, and rapid response protocols to protect the province's agriculture industry and ensure food security for its residents was spearheaded by Quezon Governor Angelina "Doktora Helen" Tan, brought together key stakeholders, including municipal and city agricultural officials, veterinarians, and barangay captains, to assess the current situation and chart a course of action.

Dr. Flomella Caguicla, the Provincial Veterinarian, provided a sobering update on the prevalence of ASF in the region, revealing that at least seven towns in Quezon province have been classified as "red zones" due to confirmed ASF cases.

She urged vigilance and adherence to reporting protocols, emphasizing the importance of early detection and containment.

The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) underscored the gravity of the situation, reminding officials of their duty to report sick animals and warning of potential sanctions for non-compliance.

DTI also emphasized the need for strict monitoring of pork products to prevent the spread of ASF. The local government units were urged to work together in implementing biosecurity measures to protect the swine industry and ensure food safety for consumers.

Meanwhile, Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Ana Clarissa Mariano painted a grim picture of the damage wrought by army worms on rice and corn crops, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.

An open forum fostered a productive exchange of ideas, with attendees sharing firsthand experiences and strategies for combating these agricultural threats. The presence of representatives from the Department of Agriculture, along with Board Members Gerry Talaga and Boyong Boonggaling, underscored the collaborative spirit of the event.

Gov. Tan expressed her commitment to protecting Quezon's agricultural sector, stating, "We are facing serious challenges, but by working together, we can overcome them. The well-being of our farmers and the food security of our province depend on it."

She also vowed to provide necessary support to affected farmers and implement stricter biosecurity measures to prevent the further spread of ASF.

" We will continue to closely monitor the situation and take proactive measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of our agricultural industry. The unity and cooperation shown today are crucial in safeguarding Quezon's economy and food supply." she said.

She also pledged continued support to affected farmers, implementation of stricter biosecurity measures, and close monitoring of the situation to ensure the safety and sustainability of Quezon's agriculture industry.