The Philippines opens new laboratory to combat ASF
Located in Paraiso, Tarlac City, the new Regional Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (RADDL) aims to ensure a healthy and resilient animal sector in the region. The laboratory, funded by the United States Defense Threat Reduction Agency (US DTRA) will provide accurate diagnoses of major animal diseases and assist the government in decision-making regarding the prevention of animal disease spread. The modern animal disease laboratory will ultimately help protect the livestock industries in Central Luzon from diseases like ASF and FMD. It will also serve as a training facility for veterinary clinicians, students, and professionals.
Currently, the north side of the country is the worst hit by the ASF virus but outbreaks have been recorded also in the south (see map below).
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According to Agriculture Secretary William Dar, the facility will help improve measures against animal diseases that have often affected provinces in the region. Secretary Dar expressed his hope that the new facility will help put an end to African Swine Fever in the country. At present, there are RADDLs in Region 2, Cebu, Cagayan De Oro, General Santos, and Davao.
The measure is an important step towards expanding access for Brazilian meat to that market. The ...
