Around 200 Students in Antique Hospitalized After Dengue Fogging Operation

Around 200 students in Antique were rushed to the hospital for experiencing health issues after a dengue fogging operation.

On Wednesday (July 2, 2025), nearly 200 students from Barangay Pis-anan in Sibalom, Antique was rushed to the Ramon Maza Sr. Memorial District Hospital earlier this morning after experiencing health issues believed to be caused by exposure to strong chemical fumes.

The students from Pis-anan National High School and Pis-anan Central School began feeling unwell after inhaling a strong odor, which was described as similar to the smell of rotting guava. Most of the students complained of dizziness, difficulty breathing, and some even lost consciousness.

Authorities are suspecting that the cause may be a chemical used during a mosquito fogging operation in the area. Others believe it could have been pesticide spray used on nearby mung beans or rice fields. Investigations are still ongoing to confirm the exact source.

A temporary triage area and medical tents were set up outside the hospital to help accommodate the students who need treatment due to the sudden increase in the number of patients.

Those with more serious conditions were transferred to the Angel Salazar Memorial General Hospital in San Jose for closer monitoring and proper medical care.

Medical experts advised parents and residents to make sure children who may have been exposed take a bath immediately to remove any chemical residue on the skin. They also encouraged the use of face masks when in areas where strong chemical smells are present.

As a safety measure, the public has been warned to avoid the boundary between Barangays Pis-anan and Nagdayao, where the chemical exposure was strongest. Access to the area will remain restricted until proper disinfection is done or until heavy rain washes the chemical away.