Beta-Lactam- and Aminoglycoside-Resistant Vibrio parahaemolyticusin Marine Food Fish from Four Public Markets in Bukidnon Province,Philippines

Johndel Remon; Zeus Elumba; Matilda Grace Cempron; Reggie Dela Cruz; Joliesa Mae Toledo

doi:10.52751/cmujs.2026.v30.i1.n8ip2w5

Authors

Johndel Remon Central Mindanao University Author https://orcid.org/0009-0005-4159-2588
Zeus Elumba Central Mindanao University Author
Matilda Grace Cempron Central Mindanao University Author
Reggie Dela Cruz Central Mindanao University Author
Joliesa Mae Toledo Central Mindanao University Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.52751/cmujs.2026.v30.i1.n8ip2w5

Keywords:

Vibrio parahaemolyticus, genomic resistome, public markets, marine fishes

Abstract

Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a bacterium recognized for its pathogenic potential frequently associated with the consumption of contaminated seafood, particularly fish. Although fish constitute a dietary staple in the Philippines, comprehensive data on the prevalence, antimicrobial resistance, and evolutionary relationships of V. parahaemolyticus remain scarce. This study assessed the presence of V. parahaemolyticus in three commonly consumed fish species sourced from public markets in Bukidnon Province using toxR gene amplification. AMR and ARGs were evaluated through Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method and PCR, respectively. Evolutionary relationships were determined by comparing toxR gene sequences and constructing phylogenetic trees. All fish samples tested positive for V. parahaemolyticus, indicating a 100% occurrence rate. Seven isolates demonstrated resistance to ampicillin, three to ceftazidime, and seven to gentamicin. The blaCARB gene was identified in four isolates, corroborating phenotypic resistance to ampicillin and ceftazidime. BLAST-based analysis of toxR sequences confirmed high identity with reference V. parahaemolyticus sequences in the NCBI database, validating species-level identification. Phylogeny indicated 83-100% similarity among isolates, reflecting intra-species genetic diversity. Findings document the presence of β-lactam- and aminoglycoside-resistant V. parahaemolyticus in marine food fish and underscore the necessity for enhanced seafood safety protocols and ongoing AMR surveillance to reduce the risk of seafood-borne infections.

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