Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong has ordered stricter inspections of food establishments following a viral social media post alleging that a rat was found in a soup dish served at a buffet restaurant in the city.

The incident, which quickly spread across various platforms, drew strong public reaction and raised concerns over food safety and sanitation standards.

City officials said the restaurant involved, identified as ‘Jungle Town’, temporarily closed on June 13 to conduct general cleaning and pest control operations.

Magalong said the establishment could face penalties if authorities find violations of sanitation regulations.

“Mahigpit tayo pagdating sa sanitation. Kaya talagang kailangan i-sanction natin yung restaurant na yun,” the mayor told reporters, noting that inspection teams regularly monitor food establishments across the city.

He added that a series of inspections would be conducted not only in the area where the restaurant is located but also in other parts of the city to ensure compliance with health standards.

The mayor also apologized to affected customers and assured the public that the local government would take immediate steps to address sanitation concerns.

“We would like to assure the public that we will be doing everything to make sure na ma-address talaga natin itong problema sa sanitation,” he said.

Magalong also called for cooperation among businesses, communities and government agencies in maintaining sanitation standards.

“Kaya kailangan talaga sustain yung ating mga efforts dyan. At hindi kayang gawin lahat ng gobyerno. Kailangan lahat tayo, magtulungan. Mismong komunidad, makipagtulungan. Pribadong sektor, makipagtulungan.”

The restaurant has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident.