Suspected food poisoning downs 17 in Taguig City

Seventeen Muslim residents of Barangay Maharlika in Taguig City fell ill after eating packed food hours after it was delivered to them as they celebrated the end of Ramadan Tuesday.

However, the Taguig City Health Office has denied reports that there were hundreds of Muslims who became victims of alleged food poisoning in that barangay.

City Health Officer, Dr. Rolando Paac even said no one was admitted at the health center last Tuesday because it was closed, Eid al Fitr being a holiday.

Upon verification with leaders and residents in Barangay Maharlika, Dr. Paac learned that 5,000 food packs consisting of rice, vegetables, fried milkfish and chicken were delivered by the Office of Muslim Affairs (OMA) at 2:30 p.m. on Oct. 24 for distribution to the different tribal groups in the area for the celebration of Eid al Fitr.

At the place known as The Barracks, eight people allegedly suffered from stomach pains. Two hundred food packs were distributed at The Barracks.

At the Condo Housing, where 500 food packs were distributed, six persons reportedly suffered from diarrhea.

Paac learned that three persons were also documented as having suffered stomach pains, dizziness and vomiting.

He said he also received reports that a certain Husman Hadjal, 28, a Tausug from Davao who was staying at The Barracks, did not reach the Taguig-Pateros District Hospital alive at 10:30 p.m. on the same day. — Rhodina Villanueva