MANILA – The Department of Agriculture (DA) has lifted its temporary import bans on poultry and related products from Israel and South Dakota, United States, after veterinary authorities confirmed the containment of avian influenza outbreaks in those areas.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. issued separate administrative orders lifting restrictions on the entry of domestic and wild birds, poultry meat, day-old chicks, hatching eggs, and semen for artificial insemination from the two regions.

The decision followed reports to the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) indicating no new cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) since mid-July.

“These decisions are based on scientific evidence and international reporting standards to ensure both biosecurity and a stable supply of poultry products,” Tiu Laurel said.

The DA emphasized that such import bans are precautionary measures designed to protect the country’s livestock and poultry industries, which are vital to rural employment, investments, and food security.

It also reiterated its commitment to international biosecurity standards to ensure consumers’ access to safe and affordable food.