Only countries already accredited by the Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA) may apply for recognition of ASF-free zones. Exporting countries must provide detailed information on:
- their ASF surveillance system;
- current control measures;
- clearly defined boundaries of ASF-free regions.
The Philippines’ Bureau of Animal Industry will conduct a six-month technical review to verify that the submitted information meets DA requirements and international standards.
Once the assessment is completed, the exporter receives an official notification. If approved, a draft ASF Regionalization Agreement is prepared, which includes:
- veterinary health requirements;
- import terms and conditions;
- a template of the Veterinary Health Certificate.
Bilateral recognition takes effect once the agreement is signed by the Chief Veterinary Officers of both countries and a corresponding Memorandum Order is issued by the Philippine Department of Agriculture.
Exporting countries must also submit annual ASF status reports, including monitoring, surveillance, and laboratory testing data.
Requirements for live pigs:
- no clinical signs of ASF;
- origin exclusively from officially recognized ASF-free regions;
- prohibition on passing through restricted zones during transport.
Requirements for pork products:
- origin only from ASF-free regions;
- direct transport to approved slaughterhouses in sealed vehicles;
- mandatory ante- and post-mortem inspections with favorable results, in accordance with WOAH standards.
The circular mandates a regulatory review after two years to ensure the rules remain timely and effective. All previous directives inconsistent with the new order are repealed or amended.
Agriculture Secretary Tiu Laurel emphasized that the new system balances food security with strict animal health safeguards. He noted that the policy protects local producers while supporting responsible, science-based international trade and helping prevent new ASF outbreaks.
PigUA.info based on materials from pig333.com