By Kenneth Marcos 
Inside a packed convention hall in Manila, veterinarians, farmers, and local officials leaned forward in their seats as experts discussed the newest threats facing livestock and the communities that depend on them. The third day of the Animal Health Congress 2025 opened with urgency and hope, as speakers highlighted the growing need to strengthen animal health systems across the country.
The event placed a strong focus on policy reforms that aim to improve frontline response in both local government units and national agencies. One of the major proposals discussed was the push for mandatory municipal veterinary positions. Advocates said many towns still lack full-time veterinarians, leaving farmers unprotected during outbreaks of diseases such as African Swine Fever (ASF), bird flu, and rabies. Officials argued that having permanent animal health officers in every municipality would create faster, steadier, and more accountable support for livestock raisers.
A key portion of the day centered on improved surveillance systems. Experts presented the latest updates on the SET Mission, a framework designed to help provinces strengthen their disease detection and emergency response capacities. Speakers emphasized that early detection saves both lives and livelihoods—especially for small farmers who often bear the heaviest losses during animal disease outbreaks.
Participants also learned about new diagnostic tools for ASF. The technology aims to speed up confirmation of suspected cases in farms and slaughterhouses, helping local authorities react before infections spread widely. These updates build on recent efforts to modernize the country’s disease monitoring network, which has been strained by recurring ASF waves in Luzon and parts of Visayas and Mindanao.
Community surveillance was another major theme, with the expansion of CESR (Community-based Early Surveillance and Reporting) programs. These initiatives train residents and local livestock workers to report unusual animal deaths or symptoms quickly, bridging the gap between farms and veterinary offices. Organizers said this community-driven approach is proving crucial in far-flung barangays where formal veterinary services remain limited.
Discussions also touched on emergency response beyond physical disease. Specialists raised concerns about the mental health of animal health workers and farmers during crises. They explained that large-scale culling, income loss, and long recovery periods can trigger stress, fear, and burnout. The congress highlighted the need for psychological support systems, especially for those directly involved in outbreak containment.
Slaughterhouse surveillance was presented as another growing priority. Enhanced monitoring in these facilities, officials said, will help detect infections entering the food supply chain and protect consumers. With stronger coordination among national agencies and local governments, organizers expressed confidence that these policies can reduce the spread of dangerous livestock diseases.
As the day closed, delegates reflected on the importance of cooperation among government agencies, veterinarians, farmers, and communities. They stressed that animal health is deeply connected to public health, food security, and the stability of rural livelihoods.
The discussions underscored a clear message: with stronger systems, updated tools, and shared commitment, the country can build a safer and more resilient future for animals and people alike.
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