Some 4,000 swine farmers in Negros Oriental who were affected by the African swine fever (ASF) have benefited from the financial assistance granted by the provincial government, an official said Wednesday.

The disbursement was facilitated by the Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) based on a verified list of affected farmers submitted by the local government units (LGUs).

“As of today, the provincial government has shelled out some PHP22 million in cash or checks to the beneficiaries from various municipalities and cities based on the official lists,” PVO information officer-designate Jaymar Vilos said.

Vilos said each beneficiary is entitled to PHP3,000 for every head of swine or a maximum of five heads, or PHP15,000 that either died or culled due to the ASF.

The beneficiaries came from Basay, Zamboanguita, Dauin, Valencia, Dumaguete City, Sibulan, Amlan, Tanjay City, Pamplona, Bais City, Manjuyod, Bindoy, Ayungon, and Vallehermoso.

He said the total number of hogs lost to ASF in Negros Oriental since last year could not be estimated, as other areas hit by the viral disease were not properly reported.

The provincial government allocated a PHP30 million budget for ASF claims last year, as mandated by law to help the farmers recover their losses. (PNA)