A TOTAL of 657 hogs have died in Medellin, northern Cebu, resulting in an estimated loss of P2.07 million, according to local officials. The deaths, recorded between Aug. 1 and 19, were primarily attributed to unsanitary conditions and adverse weather, according to Municipal Agriculturist Ruben Noynay. The fatalities occurred across seven of 19 barangays in the town, affecting 85 hog raisers. These barangays are Kawit, Antipolo, Poblacion, Maharuhay, Dayhagon, Mahawak, and Lamintak Norte.
He also noted that a provincial veterinarian had tested the hogs, confirming that none were infected with ASF. Despite the losses, Noynay assured that there is no pork shortage in Medellin, with the town’s estimated hog population close to 5,000. The supply and prices of pork in local markets remain stable. The Municipal Agriculture Office is focused on disinfecting affected farms and educating hog raisers on disease prevention.