5 steel firms probed for air pollution

MANILA, Philippines — The  Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is investigating allegations of air pollution against five steel mills  in Pampanga, Davao City and Caloocan.

The emissions of Melter, Real and Wan Chiong Steel Corps. in Pampanga, Metro Dragon in Caloocan City and Davao Mighty exceed the maximum level set by the World Health Organization, according to the Philippine Association of Free Labor Unions and Clean Air Philippines Movement Inc. 

“The investigation must be completed as quickly as possible so we can take immediate measures...and if necessary, hold these companies accountable,” Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu said.

He said iron and steel factory workers are also exposed to a wide range of pollutants depending on the process and materials used.

The Environmental Management Bureau created a team to conduct the probe.