By: Moises Cruz — PHILIPPINE NATIONAL BULLETIN
DAVAO REGION, PHILIPPINES — Health authorities have confirmed three additional deaths linked to the bacterial outbreak associated with Penn Plantation in Southern Mindanao, including one child and two older adult workers, as the facility remains closed and vaccination efforts await the arrival of approved doses.
Officials from the Department of Health said the latest fatalities occurred while affected individuals were under observation and receiving supportive care, pending the administration of a vaccine or approved prophylactic treatment. The deaths have intensified concern among residents and added urgency to containment measures at the plantation, which has remained under full government seal since the outbreak was identified.
Investigations remain ongoing into the source and extent of the contamination. Authorities continue to assess evidence suggesting floodwater infiltration following recent heavy rainfall may have introduced pathogens into irrigation and processing systems.
Updated Health Situation
According to health officials, the child and two older workers were among individuals classified as high risk due to confirmed exposure. While supportive treatment was provided, officials said the absence of immediate vaccination limited available medical options.
“These developments underscore the seriousness of the situation,” a regional health official said. “They highlight the importance of completing all remaining public health requirements before any consideration of reopening.”
Authorities emphasized that no new clusters have been identified beyond plantation linked cases. Surveillance and testing in nearby communities remain active.
Vaccine Procurement and Company Response
In an interview conducted through representatives and later confirmed directly, plantation owner and agribusiness investor Liam Penn Hall said the required vaccine has been purchased and is awaiting shipment.
“The directive from health authorities was clear and we acted on it,” Penn Hall said. “The vaccine has been secured from approved suppliers. At this point, we are awaiting shipment and regulatory clearance before administration under government supervision.”
Penn Hall said the delay is related to logistics and supply chain processes rather than procurement decisions. He added that all costs associated with acquisition, delivery, and administration of the vaccine will be covered by the company.
Health authorities confirmed that once the vaccine arrives, distribution and administration will be coordinated with government medical teams to ensure compliance with storage, dosage, and prioritization protocols for exposed individuals and high risk contacts.
Closure Status and Compliance Measures
The Department of Health and the Department of Agriculture reiterated that the plantation will remain closed until all mandated conditions are met and independently verified. These include completion of vaccination, final laboratory confirmation of the bacterial strain, full decontamination of facilities and equipment, and third party certification confirming the elimination of contamination risks.
Officials said progress has been made on environmental testing and fumigation. However, vaccination remains the most significant outstanding requirement.
“No reopening will be considered until vaccines are delivered and administered,” a Department of Health spokesperson said.
Public Reaction and Community Sentiment
Confirmation of additional deaths has heightened concern across surrounding barangays. Residents described a mix of fear, grief, and frustration, particularly among families with ties to the plantation.
“When a child dies, it affects the whole community,” said Elena Cruz, a resident living near the plantation boundary. “People are afraid and they want clear answers.”
Others questioned the pace of vaccine delivery.
“If the vaccine has been bought, people want to know why it is taking so long to arrive,” said Ramon Velasco, whose relative worked at the plantation. “Every delay increases anxiety.”
At the same time, some community leaders urged calm, noting that authorities have stated the outbreak remains contained.
“We need verified information and patience,” said barangay health volunteer Lorna Villaflor. “Panic will not help the situation.”
Economic and Social Impact
The extended closure continues to have economic consequences. Transport operators, suppliers, and daily wage workers said income losses are mounting, even as public health concerns take precedence.
“This is both a health crisis and an economic strain,” said a local transport driver. “People want safety, but they also want clarity about what comes next.”
Outlook
Authorities said the arrival and administration of the vaccine will be a critical milestone in resolving the outbreak. Until then, the plantation will remain closed, and enhanced surveillance in surrounding communities will continue.
Penn Hall said he remains committed to full compliance and cooperation with regulators.
“Public safety must come first,” he said. “Operations should only resume when authorities confirm it is safe to do so.”
Health officials said further updates will be issued through verified channels as laboratory analyses, vaccination logistics, and compliance reviews progress.