The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has unveiled new, locally developed technologies designed to detect and contain African Swine Fever (ASF) early, in a renewed effort to protect the country’s struggling hog industry.
The launch was led by DOST-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (DOST-PCAARRD), in partnership with the DOST-Industrial Technology Development Institute (DOST-ITDI) and BioAssets Corporation.
The new tools focus on early detection, rapid response, and long-term disease management.
“Napaka-importante na ipakita natin na kayang gawin ng mga Pilipino ang mga teknolohiya na makakatulong sa pag-address sa ating problema sa pagkain,” said DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr.
Among the innovations is the TUSLOB® Rapid DNA Extraction Kit, which enables fast, equipment-free DNA extraction from potentially infected pig blood samples.
ASF is a highly contagious hemorrhagic disease that affects pigs. While it poses no risk to humans, it has devastated the country’s pork supply and livestock industry.
Moreover, Dr. Synan Baguio of DOST-PCAARRD emphasized that, in the absence of an effective cure or vaccine for ASF, early detection and strict biosecurity measures remain crucial.
“Rising animal feed costs continue to drive pork prices higher, straining both producers and consumers,” He added.
Hog inventory declined from 12.7 million in 2019 to 8.75 million in 2025. Pork prices more than doubled, jumping from ₱224 per kilo to ₱450.
Furthermore, the TUSLOB® kit works alongside the VIPtec® ASFV Real-Time PCR Detection Kit, a portable field test that delivers accurate results without the need for laboratory equipment.
Both were developed by DOST-ITDI and tailored specifically for local ASF virus strains.
“These kits are optimized for the Philippine context, affordable, field-deployable, and reliable,” said Baguio.
Finally, the third innovation featured in the launch was the Mobile Biocontainment Laboratory, the first of its kind in the country.
Developed by BioAssets Corporation through DOST’s Business Innovation Through S&T (BIST) program, the mobile lab enables on-site testing and containment, reducing delays caused by transporting samples to distant facilities.
As of July 11, six provinces still have active cases, with 76 affected within the country’s 82 provinces since 2019.
Officials urge all stakeholders, from backyard raisers to commercial producers, to follow safety protocols, report suspected cases, and participate actively in surveillance efforts.
