In relation to the Province-led Agriculture and Fisheries Extension System (PAFES-NV) caravan held on August 28, 2024, in Barangay Babadi, the Provincial Veterinary Service Office (PVSO) took the opportunity to highlight its animal health services, aimed to bring critical services closer to the farmers of Babadi and other barangays within the town of Kayapa.

Dr. Diomedes Anuma, representing the PVSO, provided an update to the residents on the office’s ongoing programs and projects. Initiatives are focused on animal disease prevention, control, and eradication. Key services include vaccination, treatment, and medication, along with regular health and monitoring services. The PVSO also emphasized the importance of its Information, Education, and Campaign (IEC) initiatives, which are designed to raise awareness among farmers about best practices in livestock and poultry management.

In addition to health services, Dr. Anuma outlined the PVSO’s regulatory functions, which include meat and food safety inspections, veterinary quarantine operations, and the enforcement of animal welfare standards. These services are vital to ensuring that livestock and poultry products in the province meet the highest safety and quality standards.

A significant part of Dr. Anuma’s update focused on current challenges in animal health within the province. He reported that African swine fever (ASF) has unfortunately affected six municipalities in Nueva Vizcaya, including the towns of Bayombong, Bambang, Aritao, Dupax del Sur Norte, and Sante Fe. However, the PVSO is actively conducting monitoring activities to prevent the spread of ASF to other areas.

On a more positive note, Dr. Anuma confirmed that the province remains free of both avian influenza (bird flu) and foot-and-mouth disease. He assured the residents that the PVSO is committed to maintaining this disease-free status through ongoing vigilance and preventive measures.

The inclusion of the PVSO’s services in the PAFES-NV caravan is a strategic approach to agriculture and fisheries, recognizing the role that animal health care plays in the overall success of these sectors. “By bringing these services directly to the communities, the PVSO aims to empower local farmers with the knowledge and resources needed to protect and enhance their livestock and poultry, which hopefully will contribute to a healthier and more productive agricultural environment in Nueva Vizcaya,” Dr. Anuma said. /gpp

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