More than 100 students from a school in the City of San Fernando were taken to the hospital afternoon on Thursday, March 5, 2025, after showing symptoms of suspected food poisoning during a feeding program.

Students reportedly experienced dizziness, vomiting, and diarrhea while the activity was ongoing at the school.

According to organizers of the feeding program, the students affected were brought immediately to the hospital to receive medical treatment.

Health officials said 22 students showed signs of dehydration and were given intravenous (IV) fluids. Doctors later said the students’ conditions stabilized, and most of them were discharged after receiving treatment.

The organizers also said they shouldered the medical expenses of the students and are continuing to coordinate with their parents.

Meanwhile, the Department of Health and the Provincial Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit, under the Pampanga Provincial Health Office, are investigating what could have caused the suspected food poisoning.

Authorities said they are monitoring the condition of the students closely while waiting for the results of the investigation.

Dr. Dax Tidula, Pampanga provincial health officer, said the quick response helped prevent the situation from worsening.

“Ang kagandahan nung nangyari nung nalaman ng organizer na nagkasintomas na nahilo at saka yung nagkaroon ng gastrointestinal symptoms, ipinadala agad sa pinakamalapit na ospital. Initially nagamot naman ang lahat ng bata at yung mga nag-develop talaga ng symptoms at may signs ng dehydration, iniswero natin,” he said.

Health authorities also reminded the public to ensure that food prepared for feeding programs is handled safely to prevent food-borne illnesses.

GMA Regional TV is awaiting the statement from the school administration regarding the incident, as of press time.