7 Deadly Skin Products Tainted With Mercury Being Sold Online

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



Toxic watchdog BAN Toxics issued a warning about seven (7) China-made skin whitening creams available for sale on online shopping sites Shopee and Lazada after detecting mercury content. Four of the products have been banned by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Using a Vanta C Series Handheld XRF Chemical Analyzer, the skin lightening creams, priced between 80 PHP and 264 PHP, were found to contain excessive amounts of mercury, with levels ranging from 115 to 5,150 parts per million (ppm), exceeding the regulatory limit.

JiaoLi HuiChuSu Face Cream 7 Day Specific Eliminating Freckle (already banned by the FDA)


JiaoLi HuiChuSu Miraculous Cream (already banned by the FDA)


Szitang 7-days Specific Whitening & Spot A-B Set Cream (already banned by the FDA)


Szitang 10-day Whitening and Spot Day & Night Set (already banned by the FDA)


BL Vterly Day and Night Retinol & Collagen Cream


PEARL NATURAL Whitening & Anti-Aging Cream


Day and Night Whitening Anti Freckle Melasma (Green)

According to the World Health Organization Fact Sheet on Mercury and Health, mercury is considered one of the top ten chemicals of major public health concern. Exposure to even small amounts of mercury can cause serious health problems and poses a threat to the development of a child in utero and during early stages in life. Mercury can also have toxic effects on the nervous, digestive, and immune systems, as well as on the lungs, kidneys, skin, and eyes.

“We are dismayed that skin lightening creams tainted with mercury continue to prevail in online markets despite regulations on the use of mercury in personal care products,” said Thony Dizon, Toxics Campaigner, BAN Toxics.

“The ongoing use of hazardous chemicals in beauty products must be stopped.”

BAN Toxics cautions the public to be vigilant when purchasing skin lightening creams that are regulated by the FDA to prevent exposure to toxic mercury.

“We call on the regulatory agencies—the FDA and the Department of Trade and Industry—to investigate and immediately conduct enforcement actions against online shopping platforms that violate existing health and safety regulations and e-commerce laws in the country,” the group stated.

Frasers Hospitality Offers 60 More Reasons To Explore Like A Local With More To Save

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The global campaign “More to Explore, More to Save” is available in more than 60 locations for curious travellers to discover local hidden gems with up to 37 percent savings





 Frasers Hospitality, a strategic business unit of Frasers Property, has launched a global campaign ‘More to Explore, More to Save’ for travellers to discover new destinations and be at the heart of it all. Designed for discerning jetsetters, the campaign whets the appetite of those who wish to take a break from the hectic city life and dive into cultural experiences or savour an array of authentic dishes during their trips. With a choice selection of award-winning serviced apartments and hotel residences in more than 60 locations, travellers can embark on a journey of self-discovery and live like locals while uncovering hidden gems in their favourite destination. Bookings are open until 30 November 2024 for stays before 28 February 2025.


Perfect for guests seeking to broaden their horizons in vibrant neighbourhoods and find local keepsakes to remember the experience, ‘More to Explore, More to Save’ can be enjoyed at some of the world’s most popular gateway cities. Some top favourites include:



· Capri by Fraser, China Square, Singapore

Surrounded by Singapore’s hottest restaurants, steps away from the financial district and within walking distance of three MRT stations, Capri by Fraser, China Square, is a hotel residence situated just steps from Chinatown, reinventing the concept of social living in the most talked-about destination in town. Depicting the city’s iconic conservation shophouses, the property blends heritage and cosmopolitanism with Southeast Asian heritage motifs and illustrations features that can be found throughout the vibrant serviced residence.



· Modena by Fraser, Bangkok, Thailand

Located within FYI Center and adjacent to Queen Sirikit MRT station is Modena by Fraser, Bangkok is just one station away from Sukhumvit Interchange and Asok BTS station and steps away from the popular shopping mecca Terminal 21. Modern in style with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the cityscape and lush greenery, the hotel residence’s rooms and studios offer a respite from the city’s hubbub, perfect for a short leisure trip or extended business stay.



· Fraser Place Chengdu, China

Situated in the heart of Gaoxin District, Chengdu's bustling business district, the recently opened serviced apartment is adjacent to Chengdu Poly Time Edition, a thriving hub that boasts commercial resources and transport connections. Featuring an artistic and contemporary design, the accommodation ranges from studios to three-bedroom apartments, making it the perfect home base for couples and extended families to explore the many sights Chengdu has to offer.



· Fraser Residence Nankai, Osaka, Japan

Soaring above a lively shopping and entertainment hub of Namba, Fraser Residence Nankai, Osaka boasts 114 fully-furnished studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments that exude understated luxury with dedicated living, dining, and bedroom areas. Featuring a modern kitchenette, spacious work desk, washer/dryer, and a comprehensive home entertainment system, the property is a designed haven perfect for long and short stays.



· Fraser Suites Le Claridge Champs-Élysées, Paris, France

Ideally located just few steps from the great Parisian attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum and Sacré Coeur, Fraser Suites Le Claridge Champs-Élysées boasts an ideal location for travellers to explore the best of this city. Featuring luxurious serviced apartments ranging from deluxe studios to exquisite duplex penthouses, the rooms and suites are comfortable, spacious and bright with some offering a balcony or view of Paris.


Franklin D Roosevelt subway station is just steps away, which connects to all major networks, providing access to Gare du Nord, Gare de Lyon, Disneyland and Charles de Gaulle airport.


Terms and inclusions:Sign up as a Fraser World member to enjoy the offer
Enjoy up to 37 percent off accommodation rates
Daily complimentary breakfast at participating properties
72-hour cancellation policy at participating properties
Exclusive discounts at selected properties


Ideal for bleisure travellers looking to blend business and leisure, Frasers Hospitality provides a home-away-from-home experience. Its diverse accommodation options range from cosy rooms and studios to spacious one- to three-bedroom apartments equipped with kitchenettes and laundry facilities. Additional amenities such as fitness centres and housekeeping services ensures a comfortable and convenient stay.


With over 60 locations available, there are even more reasons to ignite your curiosity and explore. Book your stay at Frasers Hospitality and uncover a world of endless possibilities.



About Frasers Hospitality


Frasers Hospitality celebrates over 26 years of excellence through its extensive accommodation offerings spanning Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Headquartered in Singapore, Frasers Hospitality has expanded its globally diversified portfolio from two properties in Singapore to encompass over 100 properties across more than 20 countries. Today, Frasers Hospitality stands as one of the world's largest and fastest-growing investors and operators of serviced apartments, hotels and premium rental apartments, dedicated to providing unparalleled accommodation experiences and solutions in prime locations across the globe. As a seasoned hospitality investor and operator, Frasers Hospitality specialises in identifying and optimising hospitality assets to create enduring value for our stakeholders and partners.


As a strategic business unit within Frasers Property, Frasers Hospitality’s award-winning brand portfolio comprises five distinctive brands – Fraser Suites, Fraser Residence, Fraser Place, Capri by Fraser and Modena by Fraser, which redefine comfort, convenience and personalisation for discerning guests. Recognised globally for its unwavering commitment to hospitality excellence, Frasers Hospitality has earned numerous industry accolades and awards, showcasing its industry leadership and dedication to curating exceptional accommodation experiences.

Ensign InfoSecurity Recognised as Honouree in NextGen Tech 30, ASEAN's First Public-Private Initiative to Recognise Growth Companies of the Region

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Ensign InfoSecurity (“Ensign”), one of Asia’s largest comprehensive cybersecurity service providers, has been named an honouree in the prestigious NextGen Tech 30, the region’s first initiative spotlighting home-grown growth stage companies transforming the ASEAN economy. Organised by Granite Asia in partnership with key players such as 65 Equity Partners, DBS Bank, EDBI, Infocomm Media Development Authority, KKR, Northstar Group, Singapore Business Federation and Singapore Exchange, NextGen Tech 30 identifies companies driving exceptional innovation and growth across Automation, Enterprise Solutions, and Food Tech & Brands.

Ensign’s recognition in the Enterprise Solutions category of the NextGen Tech 30 marks a significant milestone in its growth across ASEAN. This accolade reinforces the company’s leadership in cybersecurity innovation and its role in strengthening digital resilience across the region. Powered by its in-house research and development, Ensign delivers proprietary solutions designed to address the growing complexity of cyber threats. These technologies, underpinned by patented methodologies, provide cutting-edge protection for both public and private sector organisations.

Since its inception in 2018, Ensign has evolved into a world-class cybersecurity company with an Asia-first approach. Acting as a single point of accountability, Ensign provides a comprehensive, threat-informed suite of services spanning advisory, assurance, architecture design, systems integration, managed security, and incident response. Leveraging AI, data science, and deep threat analysis, the company delivers tailored solutions to address the specific cybersecurity challenges faced by its clients.

A key highlight of Ensign’s recent innovations is the launch of Aletheia, a cutting-edge deepfake detection solution designed to safeguard enterprises, governments and consumers from the growing threat of AI-manipulated media. Aletheia represents a significant advancement in cybersecurity, leveraging AI to detect deepfakes in real time, within seconds and achieving up to 90% accuracy.

"We are honoured to be named a NextGen Tech 30 honouree. This recognition underscores our dedication to pushing the boundaries of cybersecurity innovation while supporting the digital growth of the ASEAN economy. At Ensign, we are focused on developing AI-driven solutions that not only address today’s threats but also equip organisations to stay ahead of future challenges,” said Tammie Tham, Group Chief Executive Officer of Ensign InfoSecurity.

The NextGen Tech 30 is backed by a panel of esteemed industry leaders and investors including Mukul Chawla, Head of Asia Pacific Growth Equity at KKR; Kok Ping Soon, CEO of Singapore Business Federation; Jenny Lee, Senior Managing Partner of Granite Asia; Lew Chuen Hong, Chief Executive of Infocomm Media Development Authority; Paul Ng, CEO of EDBI; Ng Yao Loong, CFO of SGX Group; Tan Su Shan, Group Head of Institutional Banking at DBS Bank; Adrienne Teh, Managing Director of 65 Equity Partners; Wong Chee-Yann, Group CIO at Northstar Group, further cementing the significance of this accolade.

About Ensign InfoSecurity

Ensign InfoSecurity is the largest comprehensive cybersecurity service provider in Asia. Headquartered in Singapore, Ensign offers bespoke solutions and services to address their clients’ cybersecurity needs. Their core competencies are in the provision of cybersecurity advisory and assurance services, architecture design and systems integration services, and managed security services for advanced threat detection, threat hunting, and incident response. Underpinning these competencies is in-house research and development in cybersecurity. Ensign has two decades of proven track record as a trusted and relevant service provider, serving clients from the public and private sectors in the Asia Pacific region.

For more information, visit www.ensigninfosecurity.com or email media@ensigninfosecurity.com.