The Department of Science and Technology-Region 1 (DOST Region 1), through the Provincial Science and Technology Office-Ilocos Sur (PSTO-IS), awarded 𝗔𝗦𝗙𝘃 𝗡𝗮𝗻𝗼𝗴𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝗕𝗶𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗼𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗞𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗟𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗘𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 to 𝗖𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 as part of its 𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗦𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺. This project aims to enhance the city’s capability to combat African Swine Fever (ASF) through early detection and response while promoting sustainable agriculture through innovative technologies.
The ASFV Nanogold Biosensor Test Kit, developed by 𝗗𝗿. 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗮 𝗬𝘃𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲 𝗝. 𝗗𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗼 and her team from Central Luzon State University (CLSU), is the first Filipino-designed screening tool for ASF. This advanced diagnostic kit detects ASF viral nucleic acids in biological and environmental samples, including blood, tissues, surface swabs, farm water, and processed pork products.
With results available in just 30 minutes, the technology combines a nucleic acid-based assay and nanotechnology using gold nanoparticles for quick and reliable visualization. The cost-effective and environmentally friendly kit provides a vital tool for managing ASF outbreaks and rebuilding the swine industry.
The awarding ceremony and training were held in Candon City. 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗿. 𝗝𝗼𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗻 𝗟. 𝗔𝗯𝗮𝗱, Provincial Director of PSTO-Ilocos Sur, representing DOST Region 1 Regional Director 𝗗𝗿. 𝗧𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗮 𝗔. 𝗧𝗮𝗯𝗮𝗼𝗴, awarded the kits and equipment to
𝗗𝗿. 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗮 𝗟𝗮𝘆-𝘆𝗮𝗴, City Veterinarian; 𝗔𝘁𝘁𝘆. 𝗗𝗮𝗻 𝗚𝗮𝗰𝘂𝘀𝗮𝗻𝗮, LGU Representative; 𝗠𝗿. 𝗟𝗲𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗼 𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗯𝗶𝗻, 𝗝𝗿., City Information Officer; and 𝗠𝗿. 𝗘𝗿𝗶𝗰 𝗚𝗮𝗰𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗻, City Agriculturist.
Dr. Domingo, led the technical training, ensuring that the participants could effectively use the diagnostic tool to monitor and control ASF within the city.
The awarding of the ASFV Nanogold Biosensor Test Kits and laboratory equipment is a testament to DOST’s commitment to Science, Technology, and Innovation. Equipping Candon City with these advanced tools as a 𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 would address agricultural challenges specifically in the swine industry and ensure food security.
This initiative also aligns with efforts to boost the local swine industry, which has been heavily impacted by ASF. Through timely detection and control of ASF outbreaks, Candon City is set to enhance its livestock management, support economic recovery, and boost public confidence in pork production.
DOST Region 1 is committed to advancing local communities and enabling smart, sustainable development in Ilocos Sur!
