More than 100 downed in Mindanao after eating packed lunch

More than 100 people were admitted to hospitals in Misamis Oriental province in Mindanao last Monday, after eating food from packed lunches.

The residents had taken part in the 46th anniversary of Barangay San Vicente in Medina town, GMA Northern Mindanao's Joe Legaspina reported.

While GMA Northern Mindanao's report indicated the number could be as high as 200, a separate report by radio dzBB's Mao dela Cruz pegged the number of people at 100.

Many of those affected complained of stomach pains, vomiting and diarrhea, according to GMA Northern Mindanao.

An initial investigation showed participants at the anniversary had eaten lunch at 2 p.m., but many of the participants – including children – started feeling bad.

"Kinabahan ako kanina kasi nagsusuka na ang aking anak. [Ginawa kong] ipa-admit dito kasama ang aking asawa. Pagdating sa ospital, ang asawa ko nagsusuka din," said one of the participants, Fryan Donaire.

Dr. Nafisah Langilao of Medina Hospital said they are not discounting the possibility of food poisoning.

"Probably poisoning. From the time sa food preparation noon is hindi na maayos..., more or less hilaw ang pagkakaluto..., kahit six hours o two hours, makakasama na yan," Langilao said.

Investigation also showed the beef and pork for the packed lunch were prepared as early as Sunday.

Barangay San Vicente chairman Allan Ignalib said it is possible the meat and bihon were repacked while they were still hot, and could have spoiled.

Mayor Ken Uyguangko ordered an investigation into the matter.

"First reaction siyempre hindi natuwa sa nangyari; for me wala sigurong sisihin sa nangyari, hinahanap pa kung ano talaga ang cause, no one to blame.... Kailangan tulungan muna ang mga tao," he said. — Joel Locsin /LBG, GMA News