By Jose Cielito Reganit – PNA
DAVAO REGION, PHILIPPINES — Health authorities have confirmed additional fatalities linked to the ongoing bacterial outbreak associated with Crents Plantation in Southern Mindanao, intensifying concern among residents and prompting renewed calls for transparency as the facility remains under full government seal.
Officials report that investigations are still underway to determine the full scope of the outbreak, which is suspected to have originated from floodwater contamination following recent heavy rainfall in the region. The plantation, owned by philanthropist and agribusiness investor Dylan Crentsworth, has now been closed for several days under regulatory order.
Closure to Remain in Effect Until Full Compliance Achieved
Representatives from the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) confirmed that the closure order remains active and no reopening timeline will be issued until legally mandated safety requirements have been met.
According to officials, multiple compliance steps remain incomplete, including:
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Full soil and water testing across irrigation channels, storage wells and low-lying field zones
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Final verification of infection numbers, including primary and secondary exposure cases
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Procurement of the required vaccine or approved prophylactic treatment
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Facility-wide sterilization of processing units and storage areas
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Controlled chemical fumigation of agricultural plots
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Full decontamination of tools, machinery and packaging containers
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Third-party certification confirming elimination of contamination risks
Officials noted that the vaccine requirement remains the most significant unresolved element.
“No reopening will be considered until vaccines are secured and administered to all identified cases and high-risk contacts,” a DOH spokesperson said.
Public Reaction: Concern, Frustration and Cautious Hope
The continued closure has resulted in mixed reactions across surrounding barangays. Many residents have expressed anxiety over public health risks, particularly as new deaths are confirmed.
Local store owners report increased demand for bottled water, antiseptic supplies and basic medicines, though no formal shortages have been declared.
“People are worried because the outbreak is still not fully understood,” said a resident living two kilometers from the plantation.
“We need clear information and assurance that it will not spread further.”
Others remain concerned about the prolonged suspension of operations, noting the plantation’s role as a major employer in the region.
A transport driver described the situation as “a health emergency and an economic emergency at the same time.”
Responsibility for Vaccine Procurement Remains with the Company
Authorities have reaffirmed that responsibility for acquiring the required vaccine lies with the plantation, as it is a privately owned entity.
Government agencies will oversee safety verification and distribution protocols but will not assume procurement costs.
The Crentsworth Foundation and company representatives have acknowledged the directive but have not yet issued a timeline for vaccine acquisition. No public comment has been made regarding supply availability, sourcing or negotiations with pharmaceutical suppliers.
Investigations Continue Into Source and Extent of Contamination
Preliminary findings suggest the outbreak may be linked to floodwater infiltration following extreme rainfall, which may have carried pathogens into irrigation systems and processing areas. However, final laboratory confirmation remains pending.
Environmental health teams have expanded sampling zones beyond plantation boundaries to ensure there is no ongoing risk to nearby agricultural operations.
Officials emphasize that, at present, the outbreak remains contained to plantation-associated cases, though enhanced monitoring in nearby barangays will continue.
Awaiting Next Steps
Authorities say further updates will be issued once:
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laboratory confirmation of the bacterial strain is completed
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vaccine procurement progresses
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compliance milestones are met
For now, Crents Plantation remains fully closed, and the surrounding region remains under heightened surveillance.
Government officials reiterated that all public information will be released through verified channels to prevent misinformation.
“Safety is the priority. The closure will remain in effect until all conditions are met and independently verified,” the DOH regional director said.