The Philippines is the only country in Asia that remains free from bird flu and foot-and-mouth disease and the DA wants to expand the operation of the abattoir in the town of Leganes and Iloilo City.

Mr Yap said that Iloilo, which is one of the top shippers of hogs and chickens in Metro Manila should consider expanding its market especially in the foreign market.

Bird flu or avian influenza is a disease of animals caused by viruses that normally infect only birds, less commonly pigs. While all bird species are thought to be susceptible to infection, domestic poultry flicks are especially vulnerable to infections that can rapidly reach epidemic proportions.

Foot-and-mouth disease is a viral disease that causes hogs, sheep and cattle to blister on their mouths and tongues, and reduces milk and meat production. It can be carried by the wind and on the vehicles and clothes of people who come into contact with infected animals.

He encouraged the raisers and producers to try to penetrate the foreign market such as China, Japan and Korea. The country technically is a ready market for meat and other poultry products. Yap also said the country is set to make their first shipment of meat products to Singapore by September.

Source: The News Today