Tagum City Agriculture Office Urges Thief Against Stolen Toxic Cassava ‘Huwag kainin’
Tagum City Agriculture Office has warned the public against a large amount of potentially dangerous cassavas stolen in the city.
The City Agriculture Office is urging residents to stay alert and avoid buying or eating the missing produce.
According to the report, around 10 sacks of cassava, weighing about 600 kilos in total, were taken from a farm in Barangay Pagsabangan. The incident happened on the night of April 20 to 21, 2026. The suspects behind the theft have not yet been identified.
The Agriculture Office explained that the stolen crops are not the usual type of cassava sold for food. These are classified as industrial cassava, which contains a high level of hydrocyanic acid, also known as cyanide.
The stolen cassavas are considered unsafe for human consumption and may cause poisoning if eaten. Instead of being used for food, this type of cassava is commonly processed for non-food products such as adhesives, as well as materials used in textile and paper production.
It makes the incident more concerning, as the stolen goods could be mistakenly sold in markets without proper awareness of their risks.
Officials are asking the public not to buy cassava from unknown sources, especially if its origin is unclear. They also encouraged residents to report immediately to authorities if they encounter anyone attempting to sell the stolen items.
The local government emphasized that community cooperation plays an important role in keeping everyone safe. By staying informed and cautious, residents can help prevent possible health risks and support efforts to resolve the case.
As investigations continue, authorities remain focused on locating the stolen cassava and ensuring that it does not reach consumers.
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