In a Children’s Health and Chemical Safety Workshop organized by the Ecowaste Coalition, Philippine Earth Justice and the University of Cebu College of Law, Dr. Bessie Antonio said the children and their parents are unaware about this problem even if they are exposed to it.
“Everywhere, we are exposed to toxic metals and we can’t get away from it. There’s a need for a department order or an advisory to implement it,” said Antonio, a pediatrician-toxicologist.
Antonio, president of the Philippine Society of Clinical and Occupational Toxicologist (PSCOT), said the Department Education (DepEd) should include subjects on chemical and metal toxicity along with waste segregation in the curriculum of elementary schools.
Antonio said metals like lead, mercury, phthalates and Bisphenol A (BPA) are found in most children’s toys.
She said exposure to high mercury level can cause weakness, forgetfulness and gingivitis. Mercury are often prevalent on thermometers, cars, fluorescent bulbs and appliances.
Antonio said lead can cause kidney damage, cardiovascular disease and permanent developmental damage to the brain and nervous system.
Antonio said proper labeling of products should be done so consumers can identify the metal content and can avoid buying or using it.
She said it is difficult to determine the level of exposure among children since the effects of toxic metals could not be quantified.
Antonio, who is based in Manila, said their office would often receive calls from households inquiring on the toxicity level of toys or housewares.
PEJC lawyer Gloria Estenzo Ramos said a certification council to be represented by the academe and government agencies can pressure manufacturers from making products with high toxicity.
She said the council can do the testing and reshape the policies of business sector in producing less plastics and using other alternative products instead of toxic metals. /Reporter Candeze R. Mongaya
Cebu Daily News 
Posted on August 28, 2011
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