THE Department of Education (DepEd) Region VI is investigating the food poisoning incident at Pili National High School, Ajuy, Iloilo, on November 4, 2022, which led to the death of one learner and the hospitalization of 15 learners and four DepEd personnel.

Based on the incident report from the Schools Division of Iloilo, the learners, together with their adviser, had lunch in their classroom, where students brought a variety of food.

On Saturday, November 5, 2022, some learners experienced stomach aches and vomiting.

They were immediately rushed to Barotac Viejo District Hospital, where they were hydrated and started on IV antibiotics.

Upon investigation, the deceased learner was first brought to Sara District Hospital and was advised to be admitted, but they refused to do so and went home.

A few hours later, the learner’s condition got worse, and was rushed to Barotac Viejo District Hospital but was declared dead on arrival.

The school, together with the Schools Division Office of Iloilo, is currently in coordination with the Rural Health Unit of Ajuy to address the needs of the affected learners and personnel and to conduct further investigation on the case.

The local government of Ajuy pledged to shoulder the hospital bill of the victims and extend financial assistance to the family of the deceased learner.

Pili National High School personnel and nearby Ajuy, Iloilo public schools, also offered financial assistance to the victims.

DepEd Regional Office VI also tasked its Legal unit to conduct further investigation on the case.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Arlene Rivera