By Erwin Nicavera/Philippine News Agency
BACOLOD CITY — The Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) of Negros Occidental has installed new signage in points of entry across the province as part of its strengthened biosecurity measures.
Dr. Renante Decena, provincial veterinarian, said in a statement on Tuesday there is a need for intensified regulatory services to protect especially the game fowl industry of the province.
There is a growing number of shipments from the province to other areas as game fowl enthusiasts prefer to buy their fighting cocks from Negros Occidental, which is known for producing quality game fowl.
Additional warning signs have been installed at the Bacolod-Silay Airport in Silay City and sea ports at Barangay Banago in Bacolod City.
Decena said the PVO through its Animal Health and Meat Inspection Services ensures the implementation of biosecurity measures in different seaports and airport in the province.
“Animal disease surveillance is also being conducted regularly to prevent outbreaks of devastating diseases,” he added.
According to the PVO, the highest number of fighting cock shipments is usually recorded during the first quarter as several game fowl expositions are being held in Manila and other parts of the country during the period.
Records showed that from January to March this year, a total of 44,436 game fowls were shipped from Negros Occidental.
Decena said the game fowl sector is contributing a lot to the province’s livestock and poultry industry.
PVO regulatory services include issuance of veterinary health certificate, livestock and game fowl registration and traders’ licenses.
These have significantly contributed in maintaining Negros Occidental as a disease-free game fowl producing province for decades now, Decena added.
For the latest updates about this story, visit the Philippine News Agency website
