Agriculture Secretary William D. Dar opens the Animal Disease Diagnostic Research Facility (ADDRF) inside the Pampanga State Agriculture University (PSAU) campus on January 24.

The ADDRF, which supports the government’s campaign for food security, safety and sustainability, seeks to form a synergy of efforts and initiatives among animal health practitioners, through the use of modern equipment and leading technologies.

The P5 million-worth facility was established in support of the agriculture and fishery sector of Pampanga and nearby provinces, which include livestock, poultry, small and large ruminants, and fisheries.

According to Dar, the center, which was funded by the Bureau of Agricultural Research, aims to elevate knowledge in animal disease and develop preventive measures.

With Pampanga and Bulacan having the highest population density for poultry and tilapia, the facility will serve as a strategic center for animal disease control in Region 3. It has the capability to detect African Swine Fever, Avian Influenza, and New Castle Disease, among others. ### (Adora Rodriguez, DA-AFID)