An advisory in Cadiz City and a temporary ban in Hinigaran have been enforced after reported illness cases linked to the consumption of locally known fish “aloy” or “tulingan,” raising food safety concerns in Negros Occidental.
Authorities in Cadiz issued a public warning after several individuals experienced adverse reactions such as rashes, itching, flushing, and difficulty breathing after eating the fish.
Initial findings suggest the cases may be consistent with histamine fish poisoning, which can occur when fish is not properly handled or stored after catching.
Reports further indicated that the fish was transported from Iloilo and was originally intended for processing as dried fish, but was later sold as fresh in the local market.
Authorities, however, said validation of this information is still ongoing.
Patients have already received medical attention and are under close monitoring.
The City Health Office (CHO), together with the City Agriculture Office (CAO), has collected fish samples for toxicological examination to determine the exact cause of the incident.
The city government said it is also coordinating with concerned agencies to trace the source of the fish and ensure compliance with food safety standards.
It has likewise urged residents to remain cautious by buying seafood only from reputable vendors, ensuring proper storage and cooking, and seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms occur after consumption.
Meanwhile, in Hinigaran town in central Negros, local authorities imposed a temporary ban on the sale and consumption of “aloy.”
Mayor Mary Grace Arceo said on Tuesday, April 7, that the move came after three individuals experienced symptoms after eating the fish on Monday.
The two have since been discharged, while one remains confined at the Hinigaran Medical Clinic.
Arceo said the affected individuals suffered difficulty in breathing, adding that an investigation is ongoing into suspected severe allergic reactions believed to be linked to the fish.*
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, maintains a personal blog on Medium, and is the communications officer of Hope Builders Organization Negros Island.