All gov't agencies to coordinate, prevent ASF outbreak — Palace

All government agencies and government-owned and controlled corporations have been directed to help curtail the spread of African Swine Fever (ASF) in the country.

"The Office of the President, through the initiative of the Executive Secretary, is hereby directing all executive departments, bureaus, agencies, government-owned and controlled corporations, government financial institutions and other instrumentalities of the government to coordinate, as well as to adopt policies and institute measures to manage, contain and control the transmission of African Swine Fever (ASF) in the country," according to a statement issued by presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo.

The statement was issued following news that processed meat products from a medium-scale processor in Central Luzon tested positive for ASF.

About 20,000 pigs have been culled all over the country in an effort to counter the virus as of September 30.

"At the same time, the Executive Secretary also directs all concerned and responsible government offices to provide assistance, alternative livelihood and skills training to those affected by ASF," the statement read.

The office also called on the public to cooperate with government authorities to prevent the spread of the virus.

Despite, the measures issued to counter the spread of ASF, officials have repeatedly said that ASF infected meat have no effect on humans but were deadly to animals.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said pork was safe to eat as long as it was purchased from trusted vendors and was properly cooked. — BAP, GMA News