STA. CRUZ, Zambales — Local officials here urged the public to practice more stringent health safety measures, as the municipality of Sta. Cruz faced rising cases of African Swine Fever (ASF) amid the on-going new coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.

In a meeting of the Municipal Peace and Order Council (MPOC) on September 10, municipal officials led by Mayor Luisito Marty discussed issues relating to the municipality’s goal to adjust to the “new normal” despite prevailing health and economic concerns like the ASF infestation.

According to Municipal Agriculture Officer (MAO) Nida Malabed, the ASF disease has already reached other areas in Barangays Guinabon, Naulo and Pamonoran.

This situation, she said, called for immediate and more aggressive interventions. 

On the other hand, Mark Misola, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer (MDRRMO), explained the process of depopulating the ASF- infected swine.  He said that the disease causes hemorrhagic fever in pigs that is almost fatal for them.

He gave the assurance that the proper method of culling the infected pigs was carried out in Barangay Lucapon South, the designated site where the infected pigs were taken to control the spread of the virus.

Meanwhile, Police Lieutenant Valle of the Sta. Cruz Police Office presented the anti-criminality operations in the municipality.

Reportedly, among the most violated protocols under the community quarantine are the regulations on wearing of face mask, social distancing and ban on mass gathering.

He warned that the violations may lead to an increase in the number of cases if the community will take these matters lightly.

Mayor Luisito Marty, who is chairperson of the MPOC, positively urged the council members to cooperate, participate and contribute towards a unified response to the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as the ASF disease.

He said that everyone’s cooperation is greatly needed for the community to cope in these trying times.  — Mae Catherine N. Quintana / DILG