“Smallholder Swine Biosecurity Practices in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras: Implications for Disease Prevention and Extension Program Design”

Abstract

Biosecurity plays a critical role in preventing disease outbreaks and ensuring sustainable swine production, particularly among smallholder farmers who often operate with limited resources and veterinary support. This study assessed biosecurity and disease prevention practices among smallholder swine raisers in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras, to provide a basis for developing targeted extension programs. A quantitative descriptive–analytical research design was employed, and data were collected from 50 registered swine raisers through a structured questionnaire administered through personal interviews. Results revealed that the majority of farms operate as breeding–fattening units (82%), indicating integrated smallholder production systems. Most respondents obtained replacement stocks from farmers within the same barangay (68%), while a large proportion relied on borrowed or hired breeding boars (66%). Commercial feeds or pellets were the dominant feed source (86%), and most farmers practiced daily cleaning of pigpens (74%). However, none of the respondents reported using disinfectants during cleaning, indicating a critical gap in farm biosecurity practices. Additional analysis suggests that the movement of animals between farms and the absence of disinfection protocols may increase the risk of disease transmission, including highly contagious diseases such as African Swine Fever (ASF). The findings highlight important structural and behavioral constraints influencing biosecurity adoption in smallholder systems. Strengthened extension interventions focusing on improved sanitation protocols, controlled breeding practices, and safe animal sourcing are necessary. Collaboration among local government units, veterinary services, and agricultural extension institutions will be essential to enhance farmer knowledge, strengthen biosecurity adoption, and sustain swine production in the municipality.