Antique chemical exposure probed

MANILA, Philippines —  The Department of Education (DepEd) has expressed concern over reports that more than 100 students in Sibalom, Antique were rushed to different hospitals after inhaling the stench of a chemical coming from a farm adjacent to their schools.

The DepEd said an investigation by proper authorities is ongoing to determine the source, nature and cause of the incident.

Officials of the DepEd Schools Division Office of Antique confirmed that the incident affected students of the Pis-anan National High School and Pis-anan Central School in Barangay Pis-anan.

The students experienced chest pains, difficulty in breathing and stomach ache after inhaling the stench.

The provincial disaster risk reduction and management council is coordinating with concerned local government units (LGUs) and health offices as well as the Bureau of Fire Protection and the Philippine National Police to ensure that all victims are provided with proper care and support.

“Heads of affected schools have been directed to implement distance modular learning while containment, decontamination and safety assessment procedures are being conducted,” the agency said. “Psychosocial support services are being arranged for affected learners and their families.”

The DepEd commended school personnel, local emergency units, health care workers and LGU officials for swiftly responding to the incident.

“Rest assured that the School Division Office of Antique is taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety of students, teachers and school personnel,” it added.