Danao officials told: Stop sale of contaminated ice

The Regional Epidemiological and Surveillance Unit (RESU-7) called on the Danao City government to prohibit an ice vendor from selling ice to ambulant vendors who sell their food outside the Cebu Mitsumi Inc. in barangay Sabang, Danao City.

This came after health authorities discovered that the water used in making ice tested positive for fecal coliform the other day. Most of the ambulant vendors identified a certain “Jo-Boy” as the ice vendor.

The ice sold by “Jo-Boy” is used in beverages sold by the ambulant vendors outside the factory. Reynan Cimafranca, RESU-7 chief, said they located Jo-Boy’s house. But he said it is the Danao City government’s job to deal with him.

Sanitation

Cebu Daily News had the chance to talk with “Jo-Boy” who asked that his real name be withheld.

He said he stopped selling ice and even removed the “For Sale” signboard on his stall.

Cimafranca also told CDN that they met more than 50 ambulant vendors at barangay Sabang Hall last Wednesday.

“We discussed about the sanitation and other permits needed so that they can legally operate,” Cimafranca said.

He said the Danao City government should implement their recommendations to protect the health of their constituents.

The Department of Health (DOH) continues to monitor the increase of chlorine concentration at the waterworks or the main source of water in barangay Sabang which was contaminated with fecal coliform.

Cimafranca said the contamination may be caused by seepage from a septic tank located near the deep well. DOH recommended to cover the deep well to avoid contamination.

Cimafranca said the situation in Cebu Mitsumi Inc., is under control and  no new cases of diarrhea have been reported.