The local government of Cagayan de Oro City has maintained that the Cogon Public Market is clean, and the products are safe despite recent concerns regarding leptospirosis.

According to City Economic Enterprise and Business Development Administration (CEEBDA) manager, Atty. Mariane Guibone-Ragas, flushing and fumigation activities are conducted regularly at the market to eliminate not only rats but also flies, mosquitoes, and other insects inside the market.

“My sanitation team is doing well in its duty and responsibilities when it comes to flushing everyday pero kung naa koy makita pwede ra man mo anha sa akong opisina or kung kinsa man galing because direct action shall be taken,” Ragas, said.

Ragas also explained that CEEBDA personnel are present to ensure stall owners comply with daily sanitation guidelines.

Several market vendors expressed concern over declining number of customers following reports of leptospirosis.

“Dili raman ang merkado ang naay ilaga tibuok man ang mga namatay naa lang nay sakit dili ka hinungdan tungod sa leptos ang merkado natural na naay ilaga bisan limpyo nga panimalay o hotel,” market vendor, Annalyn Paes, said.

Other vendors have taken precautionary measures by wearing boots while doing business inside the market.

“Nag issue ug botas among mga agalon kay para malikayan ang gi-ingon nga leptospirosis,” another market vendor, Maiza Hernando, added.

CHO clarified earlier that the circulating reports claiming 10 deaths from leptospirosis cases in the city were unfounded. CHO data showed only one leptospirosis case was recorded in 2025, and no cases have been documented in 2026, so far.