Hog raisers in Mangaldan, Pangasinan are once again raising pigs, hopeful that the local hog industry can return to its pre-ASF (African Swine Fever) strength.

“Sabi nila pwede naman nang mag-alaga. Syempre kahit mahal ang pakain, bumibili kami. Kaunti lang muna para hindi masakit,” Geraldo Terte, a hog raiser in Barangay Lanas, said.

According to the Mangaldan Agriculture Office, more residents have started to return to hog farming, timing their stocks to be ready for the holiday season when demand is high.

But officials urged raisers to remain cautious, especially during the rainy season when pigs are more prone to disease.

“Bilang veterinary officer, dapat hinay muna kasi syempre kapag tag-ulan possible ang pagkakasakit at saka ‘yung pagtama ng ASF. Kaya ang sabi ko, huwag muna sila magpapasok sa mga farm. At saka ito kasing December, nakikita natin ang demand sa baboy,” Dr. Wilino Zacarias, Veterinary II at the Mangaldan Municipal Agriculture Office, said.

The office assured that Mangaldan remains ASF-free, but authorities are calling on raisers to report any suspected cases of sick pigs immediately.