PALOMPON, LEYTE (October 24, 2025) — The local government of Palompon has expressed deep concern over a suspected food poisoning incident that affected more than 180 visitors — mostly students — who toured Kalanggaman Island earlier this week.
In an official statement released Thursday, the LGU of Palompon confirmed that 177 students and 10 faculty members from Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation (MSEUF) in Lucena City, Quezon Province, reportedly fell ill after their trip to the popular island destination on October 22.
The group, composed of Tourism Management and Hospitality Management students and faculty, was handled by IM Travel Corporation, a tour operator based in Tacloban City. Their meals were prepared by Blitz Grill, a private food provider from Palompon.
According to the LGU, the first signs of food poisoning — such as stomach pain and vomiting — appeared around 10:00 p.m. that evening, after the group had already left the island. As of the latest report, 112 students remain confined at Baybay City Hospital, where they are receiving medical care.
Following the incident, the Municipality of Palompon, through Executive Order No. 61, immediately coordinated with concerned agencies and launched a joint inspection and investigation. The probe is being carried out by the Municipal Health Office (MHO), Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO), Municipal Council for Culture, Arts, and Tourism (MCAT), and the Municipal Environment and Eco-Tourism Office (MEETO).
The LGU said the investigation is ongoing to determine the exact cause of the incident and identify those responsible. Officials assured the public that they are closely working with authorities and monitoring the situation.
“The safety, health, and welfare of all visitors to Kalanggaman Island remain our top priority,” the LGU said.
“We are taking all necessary steps to ensure accountability, strengthen safety protocols, and prevent similar incidents from happening again.”
Kalanggaman Island, known for its long white sandbar and clear waters, is one of Eastern Visayas’ most visited tourism spots. The LGU said it continues to cooperate with health authorities to ensure that the island remains a safe and enjoyable destination for everyone. (Ricky Bautista)
