BY: VANESSA BUGTONG
A few days into 2024, an outbreak swept across Baguio City, resembling an epidemic.
The culprit was a common household necessity that many would not suspect could pose health risks.
This was the diarrhea outbreak of 2024.
According to Loida Villena, Child Development Worker – Brgy. Camp 7, “I noticed her condition didn’t look good. She vomited, so I called her mom to pick her up, and she didn’t come back because she was coughing.”
By January 9, cases had risen to 1,600.
On January 10, Mayor Benjamin Magalong declared an acute gastroenteritis outbreak in the city.
Days later, cases continued to rise. This alarmed the local government, which launched an investigation. It was confirmed that the illness came from contaminated water. But the question remains, what was in the water that caused diarrhea?
Demand for bottled water soared, and many rushed to have their water tested.
The Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) tested stool samples from 10 affected individuals. Results pointed to E. coli bacteria, Sapo virus, and Noro virus, common viruses found in human feces.
Although Baguio Water District’s tests showed clean water, the outbreak still had significant effects on the city’s health, tourism, and economy.
The diarrhea outbreak even spread to parts of Benguet.
In total, over 3,000 cases were recorded.
Following the outbreak, the city government inspected deep wells and water delivery services, uncovering unlicensed operators.
The National Water Resources Board authorized the city government to license deep wells and amend its water code.
Regular water testing and monitoring were also implemented to prevent a recurrence.
As 2025 approaches, deep well operations and water testing remain under strict surveillance.
