Philippines to Initiate AVAC Live Vaccine Deployment Against African Swine Fever

MANILA — The Department of Agriculture (DA) announced plans on Tuesday to roll out AVAC live vaccines against African swine fever (ASF) in the third quarter, following approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The initiative targets bolstering the hog industry against ASF with a government-controlled vaccination program.

According to Philippines News Agency, the FDA has issued a certificate of product registration for the Vietnamese-manufactured AVAC live vaccines, clearing the way for their use. The government has earmarked PHP350 million for the acquisition and distribution of 600,000 vaccine doses to local swine farmers at no cost. The initial phase will utilize an existing stock of 150,000 doses from a single supplier, with plans for a more extensive rollout in the subsequent months.

The vaccines will be deployed primarily in areas classified as red and pink zones—regions currently struggling with active ASF cases or those at immediate risk. The Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) notes that as of July 26, there are 150 barangays designated as red zones and 476 cities and municipalities labeled as pink zones.

FDA Director General Samuel Zacate assured that the AVAC vaccines had undergone extensive trials, lasting up to two years, and had been deemed safe and effective. “It has been proven 100 percent safe and efficacious,” Zacate stated, adding that the CPR could be revoked if significant adverse effects, such as high mortality rates, were observed post-deployment.

The vaccination drive is timed to preempt a potential surge in ASF cases exacerbated by the rainy season, which facilitates the spread of the virus through floodwaters. Laurel highlighted the government’s readiness to counteract any resurgence of the virus, mentioning ongoing monitoring efforts in regions like Batangas and Mindoro showing early signs of ASF.

Laurel also provided reassurance regarding the vaccine’s impact on the local economy, suggesting that successful vaccination could lead to lower pork prices and higher profitability for pork producers within six months. He underscored the government’s commitment to supporting the industry through additional measures, including the distribution of apog (lime) and plans to procure chlorine dioxide for disinfection purposes.