17 Cadiz pupils hospitalized after eating toxic seeds

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Cadiz City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office warned the public that kasla, or tuba-tuba, seeds are unsafe for human consumption because of potential health risks.

The warning came after 17 Grade 5 pupils at a public elementary school in Barangay Tiglawigan became ill Wednesday after reportedly eating the seeds during their lunch break.

CDRRMO head Richard Amante said one of the 17 pupils reportedly shared the seeds with classmates.

About two hours later, the pupils who ate the seeds developed severe stomach pain that disrupted afternoon classes.

The pupils also experienced dizziness and vomiting.

Amante said rescuers responded to the emergency and brought the pupils to a hospital, where they were examined.

Seven of the pupils suffered severe dehydration and required further treatment and monitoring.

As of Thursday, all the pupils had been discharged from the hospital and allowed to return home to rest.

Amante said the pupils may have eaten the seeds out of curiosity because they resemble ordinary nuts.

He said it was the first time the CDRRMO had responded to such an incident.

Amante clarified that the seeds are not edible, although the plant can be used to produce biofuel.

“It is not for human consumption,” Amante stressed.

Tuba-tuba, scientifically known as Jatropha curcas, contains toxic seeds that can cause vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea and dizziness when ingested, according to a Philippine public health study. Western Pacific Surveillance and Response Journal