QUEZON CITY, PHILIPPINES - La Loma's lechoneros, renowned sellers of the Filipino delicacy lechon (roasted pig), have declared their pork products free of African swine fever (ASF), affirming their readiness for the upcoming holiday season.

According to Philippines News Agency, founder of the La Loma Lechoneros Association, stringent measures are in place to prevent ASF contamination, thanks to the collaboration between national and local veterinary authorities. In a statement to the Philippine News Agency, Ferreros detailed the rigorous inspection and certification process that pork products undergo before reaching consumers. This includes shipping permits and certifications from provincial veterinary offices, and inspections by the Department of Agriculture (DA), Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), and Quezon City Veterinary Department upon arrival.

Ferreros also highlighted the visual indicators of ASF in pigs, noting that infected pork shows red spots that turn black when cooked, which helps inspectors and consumers identify contaminated meat. He assured that all lechon sold in La Loma meets health standards, emphasizing that no pork from ASF-affected areas like Batangas, Marinduque, Mindoro, and Quezon provinces is permitted entry into Quezon City.

With the 'Ber months approaching, Ferreros anticipates a 15 percent increase in demand for lechon starting in September, peaking during the December festivities. He expressed optimism about the economic recovery, noting that the rising lechon sales indicate a rebound from the pandemic's impact.