Approximately 500 families are affected by an infestation of flies in Dumangas town, Province of Iloilo.

Residents particularly in Barangay Nanding Lopez have raised their discomfort brought about by the infestation for two weeks already.

They express worry over the effects of the infestation to their health and wellness.

“Pag natutulog ka, dumadapo sa ilong mo, sa bibig mo, hindi ka makakatulog nang maayos. Kung may sabaw ang ulam, hindi ka makakahigop dahil sa mga langaw,” complains Alema Demetita, a resident.

Residents surmised that the flies come from a poultry farm in Barangay Jalaud, Barotac Nuevo operating for about a year. Another poultry farm in the said barangay has been purportedly operating for quite a while.

“Ang mga residente pumirma na iakyat sa taas. Sa munisipyo mismo,” Barangay Nanding Lopez Councilman Ricky Berneza said.

When GMA Regional TV One Western Visayas sought the location of the poultry farm, it was found out that residents have also complained of the stench of chicken manure.

“Kakayanin mo ba na may mga anak kami. Sumasama na nga ang pakiramdam ko kasi ang tindi ng amoy,” said Rose Rudico, a resident.

Further, it was learned that the concern was raised multiple times by the barangay to the farm supervisor.

“Aaksyunan naman daw nila, gagawan ng kanal, mga butas, tatambakan ang dumi upang hindi na mangamoy. Kaso ang problema, sinasabi lang nila ngunit hindi naman ginagawa,” according to Barangay Jalaud Councilman Salde Tespuer.

GMA Regional TV One Western Visayas tried to seek a statement from the managent of the poultry farm, but the news team was not able to get through a private lot going to the farm.

However, according to the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Barotac Nuevo, the owner of the poultry farm has provided solution to the concern a week back.

The LGU pointed at a poultry farm in Barangay Guintas to have caused the proliferation of flies, and that the situation has affected about four barangays in Barotac Nuevo.

The LGU added that because of a previous tropical cyclone, #DantePH, the poultry farm got flooded, scattering chicken dung, and exposing the manure that has become a breeding ground for flies.

Following the concern, the town mayor has ordered the temporary closure of the poultry farm until the problem is addressed.

“They should clean their farm and must request for re-inspection before they are permitted to reload.  Sa part ng sanitary, kulang ang kanilang fly control program,” Josefa Abunto, Barotac Nuevo Rural Health Unit sanitary inspector, said.