The Pangasinan Provincial Veterinary Office (OPVET) has confirmed cases of heat stroke in poultry amidst the scorching heat experienced in the province and the rest of the country. 

According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the highest heat index recorded in Pangasinan was 51 degrees Celsius on April 29, 2024.

Some chickens suddenly collapse and die due to the intense heat, according to Dr. Aracely Robeniol, Officer-in-Charge of the Pangasinan Veterinary Office.

“Sila talaga ay exposed sa extreme heat. Pangalawa, hindi na sila nabibigyan ng regular na tubig na inumin, kaya ‘yan ang possible na nakikita naming [kaso] pagdating sa mga backyard raiser,” Robenial said.

OPVET continues to monitor poultry farms, as of this writing.

Poultry farm owners were advised to implement preventive measures to prevent the increase in chicken mortality during the hot weather.

OPVET assured there is an adequate supply of chicken in the market.

“Walang problema sa suplay natin, nasa sufficiency level tayo pagdating sa suplay ng poultry meat,” Robeniol said.

However, the price of chicken has increased by 20 pesos per kilo. In a market in Barangay Bonuan Gueset, the price rose to P200 per kilo from P180 per kilo.

“Sabi kasi ng pinagkukuhanan ng manok, tumataas [ang presyo] kaya tinaas din namin, kasi wala kaming kita kapag 180 pa rin,” Edlyn Manuel, a poultry vendor, said.

“Kapag mahina, kunti lang ang order; pero kapag alam naming malakas, umoorder kami ng marami. Pero ngayon hindi namin alam kasi ngayon lang tumaas,” Minda Mejia, another poultry vendor, added.