The Philippine College of Poultry Practitioners – PCPP

PCPP Statement Of Support

The Philippine College of Poultry Practitioners (PCPP) strongly support our veterinary colleagues and the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) involved in a legal case in the course of performance of their duty. These veterinarians are well respected in the veterinary community displaying high level of professionalism, dedication and work ethics.

In accordance with international protocol by the World Organization for Animal Health on the prevention and control of ASF as guidance to the contents of Administrative Order No. 22, Series of 2020, upon confirmation of the presence of the African Swine Fever (ASF) virus in a hog population, depopulation must be carried out in the area affected along with regulated movement of other pigs outside the said area to prevent the further spread of the
virus. This action is also consistent with the pronouncement of the Secretary of Agriculture that science must prevail. BAI exercised due transparency when they declared the ASF situation in the province to protect those in the green and other less affected zones.

We believe that the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test, as a laboratory tool used to validate the presence of ASF virus is of high sensitivity and specificity that a result of false positive is unlikely to happen; and that any detection of the virus in the pork meat or the blood samples in the abattoir strongly correlates with the infection level prior to slaughter.

In light of the scientific facts relevant to the events that transpired, we stand by our colleagues and support their commitment in providing the highest quality of veterinary
care.

PCPP Official Statement on the Avian Influenza Outbreak

Official Statement on the Avian Influenza Outbreak.

In light of the recent detection of the high pathogenicity Avian Influenza virus subtype H5N1 in ducks and quails – in Baliuag, Bulacan and in Candaba and Mexico towns in Pampanga, the Philippine College of Poultry Practitioners is actively coordinating with the Bureau of Animal Industry in identifying ways to stop any further spread of the virus infection.

Together with the other organizations involved in poultry production, the collective efforts of all stakeholders in facing this tough, but correctable challenge to our industry is imperative.

There is a likelihood that the virus was introduced into our initially infected areas by wild migratory birds that may have gained access to poultry holding facilities lacking biosecurity provisions and/or programs. With this in mind, anyone who is involved in poultry farming – backyard or commercial farms – should review and strengthen their biosecurity activities to ensure keeping the virus away from the poultry population in their farms.

We would like to remind the general public that eggs and poultry meat are definitely safe to eat when cooked properly.

Should there be any observation of unusual increase in mortality, it is strongly advised that these be reported to your local veterinary office or the Bureau of Animal Industry.

Let us continue to protect our poultry industry.