Puffer fish downs 7 in Bantayan

CEBU, Philippines - Seven members of a clan including three minors who were believed to have suffered from food poisoning were rushed to the hospital Saturday morning in Barangay Hilotongan, Bantayan town.

The family reportedly felt dizzy and vomited two hours after they had stewed puffer fish, locally known as "buriring", for breakfast.

Those who were rushed to the Bantayan District Hospital were Alejandro Minguito, 51; Alvin Minguito, 13; Rich Kay Minguito Rayco, 11; John Vincent Minguito, 9; Dionisio Abrasada, 53; Joseph Abrasada, 33; and Joel Abrasada, 23.

As of yesterday, all victims were already stable but remain confined at the hospital, said attending physician, Edgar Abelgas.

It was Alejandro who bought the puffer fish from a fisherman named Glen "Dodong" Orpil around 8 a.m. yesterday and cooked it for breakfast.

After eating, Alejandro went fishing with Dionisio and Joseph in Barangay Hagnaya, San Remigio.

PO2 Lou Susvilla, Bantayan police investigator, said it was around midday when Alejandro felt dizzy and started vomiting.

This prompted Dionisio and Joseph to rush Alejandro to the hospital.

"Siya (Alejandro) man kuno ang pinakadaghan og nakaon ug daghang nai-nom nga sabaw," Susvilla said in a phone interview.

Several minutes later, other members of the family also complained of dizziness and vomited and were rushed to the same hospital.

Allan Poquita, assistant director of the Bureau and Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR)-7, had said that puffer fish family has a tetrodotoxin substance in their skin and internal organs.

He explained that if it is not properly cleaned before cooking, it could be poisonous.

People who are vulnerable of food poisoning are those who have weak resistance, old aged and young children. — (FREEMAN)