Eighty-nine Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) cadets participating in a Summer Camp Training program were hospitalized after experiencing symptoms of suspected food poisoning on the evening of June 17.
According to reports, a total of 92 cadets complained of stomach pain and vomiting approximately 20 minutes after eating dinner at the training camp.
Of the affected participants, 89 required hospitalization and were transported to medical facilities for immediate treatment.
Training staff immediately stopped meal service after noticing that several cadets were beginning to feel unwell. The prompt response was aimed at preventing additional participants from consuming the same food while the situation was being assessed.
In a statement released on June 18, the 6th Regional Community Defense Group said all hospitalized cadets had already been discharged after receiving medical care.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the incident. Initial findings point to pork adobo served during dinner as the possible source of the suspected food poisoning.
Investigators are also examining whether contamination may have occurred during the preparation and handling of the food before it was served to the cadets.
The Iloilo Provincial Health Office has launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the illness and whether food safety protocols were followed.
Officials have not yet released laboratory findings or final conclusions regarding the source of the suspected contamination.
The incident occurred during a Summer Camp Training activity attended by ROTC cadets in Dingle, Iloilo. Health authorities continue to gather evidence and assess food samples as part of the ongoing investigation.
No fatalities were reported, and all affected cadets had been discharged from hospitals as of June 18, according to the 6th Regional Community Defense Group.
