‘Food poisoning’ downs 37 student athletes in Davao City

Thirty-seven student athletes from Mati, Davao Oriental were rushed to a hospital on Saturday night for symptoms of food poisoning.

GMA News reported early Sunday morning that 37 delegates to the Davao Regional Athletic Association (DAVRAA) meet were rushed to the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) in Davao city.

Baseball player Adelio del Monte III was quoted as saying that he experienced stomachache and loose bowel movement after eating fried fish.

He said that he was initially treated at a clinic and given medication but the symptoms continued until they were brought to the SPMC. 

Meanwhile some of the victims suspected that the corned beef or the pancit they ate caused the poisoning.

Davao City officials assured the public that they will take care of the needs of the victims and will shoulder all medical expenses.

The "food poisoned" student athletes are part of the  432 delegates from Mati for the sports event set from February 18 to 23. The sports meet will officially start at 3 p.m. Sunday with opening ceremonies expected to be led by Senator Manny Pacquiao.

Attorney Larence Bantiding, assistant city administrator for operations, said that an investigation is ongoing  into the suspected food poisoning incident. —LBG GMA News