The Baguio City Health Office has expressed concern over the rise in the number of acute gastroenteritis cases in the city, totalling 350 in three weeks since December 21, 2023.

Most of the cases were reported in the first week of January involving residents who ate from different establishments. 

Most patients experienced symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.

Authorities suspect contaminated water may have caused the ailment. Investigation has been opened and water from various sources has been subjected to tests, including samples from the city's water district and refilling stations.

“Mino-monitor namin and we are gathering samples," Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, Baguio City Health Officer, said.

While awaiting the results, authorities warn residents against drinking tap water.

The public is advised to consume purified or bottled water when dining in restaurants or eateries.

"We are encouraging households na may cases din sa families nila to also report, in case they have incidents like this. We are also advising households to also take precautionary measures to not use muna the tap water and ‘yung filter system nila, just use muna purified water or if not they can boil muna (the water from the tap)," Aileen Refuerzo, Baguio City Public Information Officer, said.

Establishment owners are reminded to practice proper food handling and refrain from serving tap water to customers.