Sagada is now officially a Red Zone for African Swine Fever (ASF) after tests confirmed the virus in the town. The Office of the Municipal Agriculturist (OMAG) reported that six out of seven pig samples collected from Barangay Suyo on September 1, 2026, tested positive for ASF Viral DNA, and the positive status was confirmed on September 10, 2026.

Earlier tests had shown the presence of another serious pig illness called Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS), but recent tests unfortunately confirmed ASF as well.

Together, these diseases have hit local hog raisers very hard, causing 465 pig deaths and affecting nearly 90 farmers, with the highest death toll recorded in the Central Zone barangays.

Right now, there are currently no updates regarding farmer compensation or official recovery programs but OMAG-Sagada assured the public that local authorities are doing everything possible to assist affected farmers and monitor the health status of the remaining swine population.

Because Sagada is now a Red Zone, strict rules are in place to stop the virus from spreading. Moving live pigs, pork, and pork products in or out of the town without official permits is not allowed.

Farmers and residents are asked to follow strict biosecurity steps and immediately report any sick or dead pigs to the municipal agriculture office.

Officials remind everyone that while ASF cannot be caught by humans, it is completely fatal to pigs.

People can still safely buy pork as long as it comes from trusted and properly inspected sources.

Local authorities promise to keep working hard to protect farmers’ livelihoods, keep the local food supply safe, and keep the public updated.