BAYOMBONG: The provincial government of Nueva Vizcaya has released P8 million in financial assistance to 158 hog raisers severely affected by the African swine fever (ASF) outbreak from various municipalities.

Dr. Patricio Moreno, Provincial Veterinary and Services Office (PVSO) chief, said the recipients were carefully selected from municipalities impacted by the ASF.

Moreno said the most recent data on ASF cases in the province dates back to January this year, during which the PVSO identified 48 instances of the disease in several areas, including the towns of Dupax del Norte, Dupax del Sur, Kasibu and Aritao.

He said the financial assistance, ranging from P2,500 to P5,000 per beneficiary, was sourced from the Quick Response Fund of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.

"This initiative underscores the dedication of the provincial government led by Governor Jose Gambito to supporting its constituents and for them to recover from the challenges posed by the dreaded animal disease," Moreno said.

He said more financial assistance for the next batch of affected hog raisers is in the pipeline with all the documentation currently being processed.

Gambito said the financial aid program is part of a broader strategy by the provincial government to manage and ultimately overcome the threat of ASF.

"By providing immediate financial relief, the initiative aims to alleviate some of the burdens faced by our hog raisers," the governor said. "The program is also intended to encourage biosecurity measures among the local farming community to prevent future outbreaks."

Gambito also underscored the importance of solidarity and collective effort in overcoming the challenges posed by ASF.

"We aim to rebuild stronger and more resilient agricultural practices. The provincial government is committed to supporting our hog raisers every step of the way," he said.

Moreno said this initiative of the provincial government for the local hog-raising industry "demonstrates a proactive and compassionate approach to disaster management and recovery."