In line with the efforts to manage and further combat and eradicate the animal viral diseases in Central Luzon, the Pampanga State Agricultural University (PSAU) convened a meeting with various research for development (R4D) institutions in Central Luzon to synchronize research efforts on 4 February 2022 via Zoom.
PSAU is currently undergoing a study aimed to diagnose, using molecular techniques, African Swine Fever Virus in swine, New Castle Disease and Avian Influenza viruses in poultry, Tilapia Lake Virus in tilapia, and White Spot Syndrome virus in shrimps.
Funded by DA-BAR, the implementation of the project is in collaboration with DA-Central Luzon, Regional Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (RADDL), Bureau of Animal Industry, and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources regional offices.
During the said meeting, Jacob Anderson C. Sanchez, PSAU project leader, provided project updates and explained the detailed methodologies used in the experiment. DNA sequence results collected from samples in Pampanga, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija and Tarlac were also discussed.
Dr. Milagros R. Mananggit, chief of the RADDL-Integrated Laboratories Division, committed to continuously provide specimen from RADDL-Central Luzon that can be used for the research project.
In order to harmonize such efforts, a Memorandum of Agreement was signed between PSAU and DA-Central Luzon including other key offices on 3 September 2021. One provision in the agreement is that DNA/RNA specimens, including positive samples in RADDL will be sent to PSAU for subsequent laboratory tests and DNA sequencing.
Thus, RADDL performs its mandate by providing laboratory and diagnostic services while PSAU complements the RADDL through research services.
The said study is being conducted in the established Animal Disease Diagnostic Research Facility funded by DA-BAR to help in providing fast and accurate diagnosis of pathogenic viral diseases of swine, poultry, and fisheries in the region.