MANILA — The Department of Agriculture (DA) has temporarily banned the importation of live animals and animal products from Greece following confirmed cases of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in the European country.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. issued Department Circular No. 20 ordering the immediate suspension of imports involving FMD-susceptible animals and related products to protect the country’s livestock sector.

The move came after Greek authorities reported cases of foot-and-mouth disease in domestic sheep in Lesvos on April 6.

Under the circular, the DA also halted the issuance of sanitary and phytosanitary import clearances for affected commodities and ordered tighter inspection measures in all ports of entry.

Among the products prohibited from entering the country are skeletal muscle meat, live swine, bovines, and untreated milk. However, some processed goods classified as “safe commodities” under international standards may still be allowed subject to strict conditions.

The circular also provides that shipments already in transit before the order took effect may still enter the country if the products were produced or slaughtered on or before Feb. 28 and comply with existing import guidelines. Shipments that fail to meet the requirements will be confiscated or handled in accordance with regulations.

“This circular is a critical and proactive step to shield our country from the potentially devastating effects of foot-and-mouth disease. By enforcing a temporary ban and tightening import controls, we aim to protect the health of our livestock, ensure food security, and preserve the stability of our agricultural economy,” Tiu Laurel said.

The agriculture chief said the measure is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to remain vigilant against the entry and spread of transboundary animal diseases.

The DA said the temporary restriction would be subject to regular review depending on developments in the global disease situation.