ILOILO CITY — At least 175 students from the College of Business and Management at Guimaras State University (GSU) fell ill due to suspected food poisoning after consuming food prepared by an outside caterer.

The incident occurred during the Business Innovators' Zone Conference at the GSU campus in Buenavista, Guimaras, from Nov. 14 to Nov. 16.

Authorities said the students consumed spaghetti on Nov. 15 which is believed to be the source of the food poisoning.

Forty-two students were taken to the Buenavista Emergency Hospital, while 126 patients were brought to Dr. Catalino Gallego Nava Provincial Hospital in Jordan, Guimaras, and seven are in the Guimaras Specialist Medical Center as of Sunday, Nov. 17.

Based on reports, 70 kilograms of spaghetti were prepared for around 1,400 participants, but only over 300 attendees consumed the meal. Some students, however, took leftover spaghetti home, potentially affecting family members.

"Our priority remains the welfare and recovery of our students. We are investigating the incident and will take necessary measures to prevent similar occurrences," the GSU administration said in a statement.

The university said affected students are being closely monitored and that it will provide assistance for medical expenses incurred.

The university also urged those experiencing symptoms to seek immediate medical attention.

Many students who consumed the spaghetti reported severe stomach pain, headaches and vomiting shortly after eating the meal.