BAI Conducts Foot and Mouth Disease Communication Plan Training Workshop

This initiative sought to update the existing FMD communication plan and discuss strategies for effective information dissemination and disease management.

BAI Officer-in-Charge Assistant Director Dr. Anthony C. Bucad encouraged the attendees to work together, united by a shared commitment to safeguarding the health and safety of the livestock industry, which is vital to the country’s agricultural stability.

National FMD Coordinator Dr. Arlene Asteria V. Vytiaco reported that the Philippines has been recognized by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) as an FMD-free country without vaccination since 2015. She encouraged workshop participants to serve as catalysts for positive change and to ensure that communities are well-prepared, informed, and resilient against FMD.

Through this initiative, BAI reaffirms its commitment to maintaining the Philippines’ FMD-free status through proactive communication and collaboration with other government agencies, local government units and the private sector.

The workshop was attended by BAI employees, along with representatives from various government agencies, including the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS), Philippine Carabao Center (PCC), representative from the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Ruminants, representatives from the Local Government Unit of Ilocos Norte and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. ###