2 kids die, 3 hospitalized due to ‘food poisoning’

CEBU, Philippines — Two children died while three of their siblings landed in the hospital due to suspected food poisoning in Sitio Sampero, Barangay Tapilon, Daanbantayan town in northern Cebu.

Tapilon Barangay Captain Mark Anthony “Mawi” Luche said those who died were aged 1 and 2. Their siblings, a six-month-old, 4-year-old, and 5-year-old, are now in stable condition at the Daanbantayan District Hospital.

Luche said the children were rushed to the hospital due to severe diarrhea and vomiting after eating crabs and seashells for dinner last Wednesday.

“Nanihapon daw ang mga bata nangaon sila ug kasag, kinhason, then all of a sudden naglain daw ang lawas sa mga bata,” Luche said in an interview over dyHP RMN-Cebu yesterday morning.

According to Luche, the 2-year-old victim died at their house while the 1-year-old sibling was declared dead on arrival at the district hospital. They allegedly died due to cardiac arrest and dehydration.

Luche said the parents---Victor and Jelly Alce—were out for work when the victims had dinner Wednesday evening. They were left in the company of their 17-year-old sibling.

Aside from the food, authorities are also looking into the water supply for possible contamination. According to Luche, health personnel have already taken water samples from their source for laboratory analysis.

Luche said the family is getting their potable water supply from a deep well nearby.

The barangay official said that Mayor Sun Shimura has extended financial assistance to the family on top of the aid from the barangay. A former councilor also donated coffins. (FREEMAN)