THE Department of Agriculture (DA), through the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) and the DA-Regional Field Office of the Negros Island Region (DARFO-NIR), is actively coordinating with the Department of Health (DOH) following the confirmation of melioidosis cases in humans in the province of Siquijor.
The cases, initially suspected to be glanders, were confirmed to be melioidosis, after further laboratory investigation of the DOH.
Melioidosis, a rare but potentially fatal zoonotic disease caused by the environmental bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, poses significant public health concerns in tropical regions such as Southeast Asia. It is primarily contracted through open wounds, inhalation, or ingestion of contaminated water or contact with soil. Currently, no vaccine exists for melioidosis, making prevention and early detection critical.
In response to the confirmed cases, DA-BAI and DARFO-NIR promptly deployed surveillance teams and initiated disease control protocols across affected areas in Siquijor. The BAI is in the process of sending samples to a reference laboratory for confirmatory testing and continues to monitor the situation on the ground.
On orders of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure public heath and protect local livestock, the DA has enjoined animal raisers and handlers to enhance farm biosecurity measures and adhere to strict sanitary protocols to prevent the spread of melioidosis and other animal-borne diseases. Transport of live animals and animal products must comply with regulatory requirements to ensure only healthy, disease-free animals are distributed and traded.
In line with food safety regulations, the DA reiterated its prohibition on the slaughter, sale, and consumption of sick or suspect animals. Only animals certified by accredited veterinarians and passing inspection protocols are cleared for market sale. The public is strongly advised to purchase meat with valid inspection certificates and to observe proper food handling and cooking practices. The consumption of raw or unpasteurized milk is also discouraged.
The Department also reminds livestock workers, especially those exposed to muddy or flooded environments, to wear protective clothing such as boots and gloves to reduce risk of exposure to contaminated sources.
The DA continues to work closely with local veterinary and agriculture offices and encourages prompt reporting of any unusual signs of illness in animals. Concerned parties may contact the BAI Animal Disease Control Hotline at 0966 874 8891 or email [ahwd@bai.gov.ph](mailto:ahwd@bai.gov.ph).
This advisory underscores the government’s commitment to both public health and livestock safety, reinforcing the need for inter-agency collaboration and vigilant disease monitoring in rural and agricultural communities.
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