Around 29 Students in Davao del Norte Allegedly Suffers From Food Poisoning After Eating ‘Binignit’
29 students from Tulalian National High School in Santo Tomas, Davao del Norte were hospitalized over suspected food poisoning.
On August 24, 2026, around twenty-nine students were reportedly affected by suspected food poisoning after eating binignit and drinking gulaman bought from a local vendor. Several students began experiencing symptoms believed to be linked to the food and drink they had consumed.
The affected students were quickly brought to medical facilities for treatment and monitoring.
According to police, the students bought the binignit and gulaman from the same vendor. Authorities are looking into the possibility that an ingredient may have been mistakenly added during the preparation of the food and drink.
One of the possibilities being investigated is the accidental use of bleaching powder instead of sugar. If confirmed, the substance may have caused the symptoms experienced by the students.
However, authorities have yet to establish what exactly caused the suspected poisoning. Of the 29 students affected, 23 were taken to different hospitals for medical attention. Six others were clinically cleared after their symptoms improved and did not require further treatment.
The vendor who prepared and sold the binignit and gulaman has been placed under police custody while authorities continue their investigation. The vendor may face charges depending on the findings of the investigation and the results of laboratory tests.
Authorities have collected samples of the food and drinks for examination. Laboratory testing is expected to help determine whether a harmful substance was present and if it was responsible for the students’ condition.
Officials are also expected to review the preparation and handling of the food and drinks to help prevent a similar incident from happening again. Further details are expected once the laboratory examination and police investigation are completed.
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