Inter-agency veterinary mission for animals affected by Taal volcano eruption

The Provincial Veterinary Office, Cavite headed by Dr. May Magno conducted an emergency meeting for the Inter-Agency Veterinary Mission for animals affected by the Taal volcano eruption on January 15, 2020 at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Session Hall, Legislative Building, Trece Martires City. Discussed in the meeting were plan of actions that will address the condition of animals after the eruption.

In the meeting, it was confirmed that there were no reported damages and deaths of farm animals and pets. The municipalities of Alfonso, Amadeo, Indang, Mendez, Silang and Tagaytay were identified as priority areas for the inter-agency veterinary mission based on the initial damage report submitted by cities and municipalities. Grasses and forages used as feeds in the said towns were all covered with volcanic ash posing imminent feeds shortage.

Partner agencies committed to provide veterinary supplies, medicines, animal feeds, logistics and other needs that may be needed in the mission. Donations in the form of dog food, powder and injectable medicines, veterinary supplies, bottled water and other items already started coming in as early as a day before the meeting was finalized.

Present during the meeting were representatives from the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), Department of Agriculture Region 4-A/Agricultural Production and Coordination Office (APCO), city veterinarians and municipal agriculturists, Cavite State University-College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Cavite Veterinary Medical Association, Cavite Livestock, Poultry and Feedmillers Association, Inc., Provincial Disaster and Risk Reduction and Management Office and the Provincial Information and Community Affairs Department.