No Deaths Among Hospitalized in Antique Foul Odor Incident, DOH Confirms
The Department of Health (DOH) announced on Wednesday that no deaths have occurred among students hospitalized due to complaints about a foul odor at a high school in Antique. Authorities emphasize that the safety and well-being of the affected learners remain the top priority.
DOH’s Western Visayas Center for Health Development is actively coordinating with Antique local officials to manage the situation after a strong foul odor was detected at Pis-anan National High School. “There have been no casualties, and the priority now is to keep the situation that way,” the department stated.
When asked to confirm if there were truly no fatalities, DOH spokesperson Dr. Alberto Domingo affirmed this, assuring the public that all necessary health measures are underway. “More information will be provided as soon as possible, after we attend to the health and safety of affected students, teachers, and staff,” the department added.
Medical Response and Local Actions
Local officials in Antique reported that several students were rushed to the Ramon Maza Sr. Memorial District Hospital after inhaling an unknown substance during their morning classes. Medical teams have advised those living near Pis-anan National High School to remain alert and cautious.
As of midday Wednesday, approximately 100 patients were receiving treatment at the Ramon Maza Sr. Memorial District Hospital. Meanwhile, 20 patients were transferred to Angel Salazar Memorial General Hospital, and 37 others received care at a triage facility set up at the Barangay Pis-anan gymnasium.
A Pis-anan National High School teacher, Mark Del Rosario, shared in an interview that students began complaining about the foul odor shortly after classes started around 7 a.m. The incident has raised concern among parents and community members alike.
Ensuring Safety and Ongoing Monitoring
Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely. They are working with local officials to identify the source of the odor and prevent further health risks. The DOH and provincial health units urge residents nearby to stay vigilant and report any unusual symptoms promptly.
In light of this incident, the community remains united in protecting the health of its youth. Officials assure that investigations and preventive measures are ongoing to avoid a recurrence.
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