Taiwan to check carry-on bags of Pinoys as precaution vs. African swine fever —report



Filipinos traveling to Taiwan will have their carry-on baggage checked upon arrival at the airport and other ports of entry starting Monday, August 19.
This was announced by the Central Emergency Operation Center as a move to guard against the spread of African swine fever (ASF), according to a report by Taiwan News.
The Philippines is on Taiwan's list of high-risk areas for ASF, the report said.
It also said unreported cases of ASF were detected in Bulacan and Rizal.
The Department of Agriculture on Monday said blood samples from hogs have been sent abroad for testing of various animal diseases as increased mortality has been recorded in several areas.
Agriculture Secretary William Dar said the DA will only release information after completion of tests abroad which will take two to three months. Meanwhile, the Bureau of Animal Industry has already quarantined the affected areas.
Sought for comment on, Dar said he instructed the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) in Taipei to reach out to Taiwanese authorities and clarify the matter.
“I have requested the MECO head to reach out,” he said in a text message but did not elaborate.
MECO acts as the unofficial link between the Philippines and Taiwan since the Philippine Embassy in Taiwan has ceased to exist.
It performs consular functions and is tasked with the duty of protecting and promoting the well-being of Philippine nationals in Taiwan.
Among its functions is periodic assessment of market conditions in Taiwan and submitting trade statistics and commercial reports that Philippine industries and businesses may use.
In June, then Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel "Manny" Piñol gave the assurance that there is no African swine fever in the country. —KG/VDS, GMA News

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