By EDGARD A. HILARIO
The Department of Agriculture (DA) yesterday declared that the total ban on the importation of live birds and poultry products from countries known or reported to be affected by the avian influenza remains a no-nonsense effort to ensure a bird flu-free Philippines.
DA Secretary Arthur Yap said key government agencies and the private sector concerned remain vigilant to prevent an outbreak.
The DA also continues to coordinate closely with the Parks and Wildlife Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in the monitoring and surveillance of water bodies in 20 provinces in the country frequented by wild and migratory birds and the country’s poultry facilities.
Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) Director Jose Molina assured the public of intensive quarantine control in air and seaports. Bureau veterinarians are on round-the-clock watch.
The DA-BAI also stepped up improvement of its laboratory capacity and beefed up supplies of vaccines and personal protective equipment for members of the Quick Response Action Team of the National Avian Influenza Task Force.
"For now, I wish to emphasize that the Philippines is free of the bird flu menace, and that the DA will continue to be vigilant in monitoring the situation," said Yap.
He added that though the bird flu is endemic in Asia, it is best to be always prepared for any incursion.
