Senator Bam Aquino is urging a full government investigation into the chemical leak in Antique that sent nearly 300 students to the hospital. The incident, which occurred in Barangay Pis-anan, affected learners from both Pis-anan National High School and Pis-anan Elementary School, who experienced dizziness and vomiting after inhaling a foul, toxic odor.
In a statement, Aquino called for accountability and swift action, saying, “Someone must be held responsible.” He also urged the Department of Health (DOH) to provide adequate medical support to Antique to ensure the well-being of affected students.
Aquino emphasized that the safety of learners must be prioritized, especially amid the ongoing education crisis in the country. “We often say the youth are the hope of the nation, but are we doing enough to protect them?” he asked.
According to the DOH, there have been no fatalities, and their Western Visayas office is actively coordinating with Antique officials. Samples from the incident site have been sent to Ateneo de Manila University for lab testing, with results expected within 7 to 10 days.
Provincial Health Officer Dr. Rommel Garganera said swabs from around the schools were collected to identify the specific toxin responsible. Meanwhile, in-person classes remain suspended in the affected area as the investigation continues and students recover.