GENERAL SANTOS CITY — A catering service linked to a food poisoning outbreak that sickened at least 77 residents during a barangay Christmas party in December was operating without a sanitary permit and with incomplete health clearances for its food handlers, raising serious questions about food safety oversight in the city.

City Health Officer Dr. Lalaine Calonzo confirmed that Ko N Kai Catering, which served food to nearly 300 attendees at Barangay San Isidro’s year-end celebration on December 20, 2025, did not meet the minimum requirements set under the Code on Sanitation of the Philippines (Presidential Decree No. 856).

Under PD 856, all food establishments must secure a sanitary permit from the local government and ensure that all food handlers have valid health certificates before operating. Failing to comply can lead to fines, suspension, or closure.

“Our investigation showed that some of the food handlers did not have health cards, which is a basic and non-negotiable requirement for food establishments,” Calonzo said.

Kitchen passed in parts, failed in others

Inspectors found that while some areas of the food prep site were up to standard, other sections failed to meet sanitary requirements. Lapses in food handling, cleanliness, and workflow control were noted, though authorities have yet to pinpoint which deficiencies may have caused the suspected contamination.

Health officials emphasized that without a sanitary permit, the establishment should not have been allowed to operate at all, regardless of partial compliance.

Dozens sickened, one hospitalized

After the event, attendees reported vomiting, nausea, and abdominal pain — classic symptoms of foodborne illness. The City Health Office confirmed 77 cases, including one hospitalization due to severe dehydration.

Victims were treated by the Rural Health Unit of Barangay San Isidro and later discharged after receiving first aid and medical consultation. Thankfully, no deaths were reported.

Questions on oversight

Residents noted that Ko N Kai Catering had been operating locally for some time and was a familiar provider for community events. This has raised concerns over how it was allowed to function without a sanitary permit.

Under the Local Government Code (RA 7160), LGUs are responsible for enforcing sanitation laws, regulating food establishments, and protecting public health. Yet, the catering service was able to handle a large-scale public event without meeting legal requirements.

City demands accountability

Mayor Lorelie Pacquiao has ordered the RHU–San Isidro, led by Dr. Giv Yumang, to submit a formal explanation. The city is also preparing documentation for possible administrative and legal sanctions against the catering service once the investigation concludes.

Penalties under PD 856 can include fines, permit denial, suspension, or closure, depending on the severity of the violations.