Call for Thorough Chemical Leak Investigation in Antique
MANILA, Philippines — Senator Bam Aquino has urged the government to launch a thorough chemical leak investigation after hundreds of students in Antique were hospitalized. The incident affected learners from Pis-anan National High School and Pis-anan Elementary School, with at least 286 students experiencing dizziness and vomiting due to inhaling toxic chemicals.
Aquino emphasized the need for accountability, stating, “We call on concerned government agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and demand accountability for this incident. Someone has to be held accountable for this incident.” He also appealed to the Department of Health (DOH) to extend swift and adequate support to Antique to address the health concerns of affected students.
Health Impact and Government Response
The students were immediately taken to Ramon Maza Sr. District Hospital in Sibalom and Angel Salazar Memorial General Hospital in San Jose de Buenavista. Despite the alarming number of cases, the DOH confirmed there have been no fatalities so far. The agency’s Western Visayas Center for Health Development is collaborating with local authorities to manage the situation.
The DOH reassured the public, saying, “There have been no casualties, and the priority now is to keep the situation that way.” They added that more updates would follow as they continue to prioritize the health and safety of students, teachers, and staff.
Ongoing Investigation and Safety Measures
According to local officials, the chemical samples collected from the area are undergoing laboratory analysis at Ateneo de Manila University. It may take seven to ten days to identify the exact toxin responsible for the students’ symptoms. Provincial health chief Dr. Rommel Garganera assured the public that efforts are underway to expedite the results.
Meanwhile, in-person classes at Pis-anan elementary and secondary schools remain suspended as students recover and the investigation continues.
Protecting Students Amid Education Crisis
Senator Aquino highlighted the urgency of protecting students during this time, especially amid the ongoing education crisis in the country. He remarked, “We always say that the youth is the hope of the country, but are the things we do to protect them enough?”
He called for increased attention, protection, and assistance to the youth, stressing that the government must prioritize their well-being in all circumstances.
Incident Background
The chemical leak incident emerged after students reported inhaling a foul, “rotten, guava-like stench,” which led to their hospitalization. Local leaders are closely monitoring the situation and cooperating with health authorities to prevent further harm.
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