All residents brought to different hospitals in Agusan del Sur due to suspected food poisoning have been sent home to Barangay Tandang Sora, Esperanza.

Up to 216 residents of Tandang Sora were rushed to the hospital evening on February 19, 2024 after they experienced stomachache, vomiting, and loose bowel movement. 

Those who were admitted have all been discharged. They were transported to Barangay Tandang Sora on board boats as the barangay is situated near a marsh. 

As of this writing, investigation continues to determine the cause of the illness and results of laboratory tests have yet to be released. 

Authorities are looking into food poisoning as among the possible reasons why residents experienced the symptoms.

“Pwede natin sabihin na alleged food poisoning until further investigation. Ang tawag natin dito is health emergency kasi nakayanan ng munisipyo and hospital na magrespond tayo,” Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Jacqueline Frances Momville, said earlier.

Earlier, Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago Cane Jr. earlier ordered the Red Cross to suspend its hot food truck initiative in the province pending the result of the investigation. 

Flood victims from Barangay Tandang Sora, Esperanza who also experiened the symptoms were among the recipients of the feeding program.

The Red Cross heeded the order.

"While the cause of the health emergency remains under investigation by the local government, our hot meals program in the province was suspended until the completion of the probe," it said in a statement on February 21, 2024. 

It also said it will support authorities in the investigation and "will remain transparent and will closely coordinate with the local government on this serious matter."