IN PHOTOS: In view of the recent announcement of Agriculture Secretary William D. Dar regarding Avian Influenza incident in Jaen, Nueva Ecija, Regional Director Arnel V. de Mesa called a meeting with the provincial veterinarians and stakeholders from the private sector in the region today, March 16, 2020, to discuss the necessary steps to strengthen the region’s defense against the possible entry of the disease.

According to Director de Mesa, among other, checkpoints shall be established to monitor and restrict the movement of poultry products coming in the region and passing through Metro Manila, in addition to already established checkpoints for African swine fever.

He said, “Vehicles transporting hog and poultry products will be checked in our animal checkpoints. Required documentation shall be presented and inspected.”

The Regional Task Force for Avian Influenza is activated to closely monitor the prevention efforts of the region in coordination with provincial local government units. The task force will also ensure that manpower and resources to contain the disease are available, should it enter the region.

Surveillance of high-risk areas will be conducted by the regional office in cooperation with the provincial veterinary offices. â—Ź (RFL, DA-RAFIS)