ZAMBOANGA CITY, July 27 -- Authorities have intensified surveillance, monitoring, and biosecurity measures to contain the spread of African swine fever (ASF) in Lamitan City, Basilan.

In a statement Monday, Lamitan City's veterinarian Dr. Bryan Azute said the ASF disease this month has now affected 113 hog raisers, with 284 pigs reported dead.

Azute said the figures were based on laboratory results confirming that swine blood samples collected from several barangays in Lamitan City tested positive for ASF.

"Veterinary personnel continue to monitor hogs, conduct inspections, and educate backyard raisers on proper biosecurity practices," he said.

Azute said the ongoing epidemiological investigation indicates that the disease may have or...