August 21, 2026 — The Itogon Municipal Agriculturist Office (MAGRO) reported 254 pigs confirmed positive for African Swine Fever (ASF), affecting eight swine raisers in Sitios Labilab and Tolibeng, Barangay Loacan.
Veterinarian II Dr. Franklin Balanban said that of the 254 affected pigs, 170 have died, while two were butchered before the cases were reported. The remaining 82 pigs were culled and buried by MAGRO, with assistance from the Benguet Provincial Veterinary Office and Barangay Loacan officials.
Meanwhile, confirmed ASF cases in Barangay Tuding have risen to 188 pigs, affecting 17 swine raisers in Sitios Baguio Gold, Cupao, Yanggacan, Binga Norte, Abeo, Minac, and Bua. Another 73 pigs were confirmed positive in Sitios Ilod and Supang in Poblacion, affecting three swine raisers.
Additional cases were recorded in other areas, with 16 pigs confirmed in Sitio Ducot, Ucab; eight in Dalisay, Gumatdang; and six in Sitios Keymen’s Hill and Chosol, Virac.
Since the first confirmed ASF case in Tuding on July 8, 2026, a total of 545 pigs across the municipality have tested positive for ASF through the Regional Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (RADDL). Of these, 259 were culled and buried, 268 died, and 18 were butchered before the cases were reported.
Dr. Balanban identified several possible sources of ASF transmission, including: Consumption or disposal of infected pork or meat products from pigs affected by ASF; Contaminated creeks and rivers, particularly when dead pigs are improperly disposed of in waterways; Contaminated vehicles, farm equipment, footwear, and other materials that may come into contact with infected pigs or their environment; and Movement of animals, such as dogs and chickens, from one piggery to another, which may contribute to the spread of the virus.
Dr. Balanban emphasized the importance of responsible disposal of dead animals and urged swine raisers not to throw carcasses into rivers, creeks, or other waterways.
He also said that continuous monitoring and surveillance are being conducted in partnership with barangay officials and Barangay Biosecurity Officers.
Swine raisers are encouraged to immediately report any signs of illness among their pigs, particularly symptoms that may be associated with ASF, to allow veterinary authorities to promptly assess and respond to suspected cases.
