Magalong orders crackdown on food establishments after rat seen swimming in soup

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June 15, 2026 | 6:52pm

BAGUIO CITY — Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong ordered stricter inspections and sanctions against food establishments following a viral video showing a rat allegedly found in a customer’s bowl of sinigang at a buffet restaurant in the city.

Magalong, who said an investigation has already been launched, apologized to the affected customers on behalf of the city government. He stressed that the restaurant would face appropriate penalties if found liable for violating sanitation regulations.

"We really need to sanction that restaurant.  After the investigation, there will be charges, and the owner of that establishment will face punishment or penalties,” Magalong said, adding that businesses closed for health violations cannot simply reopen without clearance from city inspectors.

The mayor also expressed concern over reports that the establishment had resumed operations after conducting only a general cleaning. He emphasized that a new inspection and certification are required before any food business can reopen following a sanitation-related closure.

The incident prompted the city government to intensify inspections of restaurants, eateries and food stalls across Baguio.

Magalong said authorities have also uncovered sanitation lapses in other areas, including Suello Village, and warned business owners to strictly maintain cleanliness standards as the city grapples with a renewed rodent problem, particularly in the public market.

"I hope this serves as a lesson to all food establishments that cleanliness is absolutely necessary,” he said.