Stricter rules sought on sale of cosmetics

MANILA, Philippines — An environmental group is calling on the government to enforce stricter regulations on cosmetic products and their sellers to ensure consumers’ safety, particularly against cancer-causing ingredients.

Ban Toxics said the European Union sought a ban on several carcinogenic, mutagenic, or reproductive toxicants.

In the Philippines, mercury-laced skin lighteners are still being sold at Lazada, Shopee and in some stores in Divisoria.

“Filipino consumers are at risk of being exposed to carcinogenic cosmetic items due to its availability in online shopping websites and in select stores in Divisoria,” Ban Toxics executive director Reynaldo San Juan said.

“The Philippine government and the shopping sites must be consistent in enforcing its regulations to address the need to protect their consumers from products that will cause them harm,” he said.

Despite the Department of Trade and Industry and the Food and Drug Administration’s efforts to address the sale of toxic-laden cosmetic items, several of which are still being sold.

“Unless steps are taken, Filipino consumers are at the mercy of unconscionable sellers of toxic goods. This is a matter of public health, and the government needs to fulfill its obligation to promote and protect the health of Filipinos,” San Juan said.

The World Health Organization has warned that mercury exposure can damage the nervous, digestive, respiratory, endocrine and immune systems.