Wazzup Pilipinas!?
In a decisive move to safeguard public health, the Quezon City Government has intensified its campaign against the illegal distribution of mercury-laden cosmetics. On February 12, 2025, Mayor Joy Belmonte signed Executive Order No. 2, series of 2025, establishing a dedicated task force to enforce the city's ban on mercury-added beauty products. This initiative has garnered commendation from environmental health advocates, notably the EcoWaste Coalition.
A Collaborative Effort to Eradicate Hazardous Cosmetics
The newly formed inter-departmental task force, spearheaded by the Quezon City Health Department (QCHD), is mandated to implement, enforce, and monitor City Ordinance No. 2767, series of 2018. This ordinance prohibits the manufacture, distribution, and sale of cosmetics containing mercury within the city. The task force's leadership comprises the City Health Officer as chairperson and the Head of the Special Services Division as vice chairperson, with the Food-Drug Regulation Section serving as its secretariat.
Manny Calonzo, a campaigner for the EcoWaste Coalition, lauded this development, stating, "We commend Mayor Joy Belmonte and the QCHD for their earnest efforts to strengthen the enforcement of the landmark ordinance banning the manufacture, distribution, and sale of mercury-added cosmetics in the city."
The Perils of Mercury in Cosmetics
Mercury, a potent neurotoxin, is often illicitly incorporated into skin-lightening products to inhibit melanin production. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that exposure to mercury in such cosmetics can lead to severe health issues, including skin rashes, scarring, reduced resistance to bacterial and fungal infections, and damage to the nervous, renal, and immune systems. Additionally, it can cause anxiety, depression, and psychosis.
Despite global bans, the EcoWaste Coalition has persistently uncovered unauthorized imported products containing mercury in local markets. Their vigilant monitoring and reporting have been instrumental in prompting regulatory actions and raising public awareness about the dangers of these toxic cosmetics.
A Model for Other Local Governments
The proactive measures adopted by Quezon City serve as a benchmark for other local government units (LGUs) in the Philippines. The EcoWaste Coalition expressed hope that other LGUs would emulate Quezon City's example by implementing robust policies and actions to eliminate the trade of hazardous mercury-containing cosmetics, thereby safeguarding public health and the environment.
In recognition of its unwavering commitment to environmental health and safety, the Quezon City Government received an "Award of Recognition" from the EcoWaste Coalition during its 25th-anniversary celebration on January 31, 2025. This accolade underscores the city's invaluable support for various advocacies, including the ban on plastic bags, promotion of ecological solid waste management, mandatory use of lead-safe paints, and the prohibition of mercury-containing cosmetics.
Global Health Implications
The issue of mercury in cosmetics is not confined to the Philippines. Internationally, health authorities have raised alarms about the presence of mercury in skin-lightening products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cautions consumers against using skin creams, beauty, and antiseptic soaps, or lotions that might contain mercury, emphasizing the potential for mercury poisoning linked to these products.
Mercury exposure from cosmetic products can lead to a range of health problems, including renal toxicity, neurological abnormalities, and dermal rashes. A systematic review highlighted that many women using these products are often unaware of the risks associated with mercury exposure.
Conclusion
Quezon City's resolute actions against mercury-laden cosmetics exemplify a comprehensive approach to public health and environmental protection. Through collaborative efforts between government entities and non-governmental organizations, the city is making significant strides in eliminating hazardous products from the market. This initiative not only protects its residents but also sets a precedent for other regions to follow in the global fight against toxic cosmetics.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
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