DOH warns public against unsafe ATM

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Health in Central Visayas has sounded the alarm bell on the proliferation of unsafe water stations called Automatic Tubig Machine (ATM).

DOH-7 director Asuncion Anden said that some ATM use bottled water from unknown sources. She said that the public should ensure that the ATM that they drink from is using bottled water from refilling stations licensed with the Bureau of Food and Drugs (BFAD).

“These ATMs are now sprouting like mushrooms. Daghan mga ATM nga mga free-standing lang, mura og mga walay tag-iya. Those who have no permit from the local health office have to be close down,” Anden said during the Kapihan sa PIA forum yesterday.

She explained that the public can check the label of the bottled water being used in the ATM that they want to drink from.

Engr. John Patrick Comahig of the Environment Health Program of the DOH-7 admitted that it is very difficult to monitor the safety of the water sold in the ATM. In fact, the DOH is yet to come up with a regulation on the matter.

DOH assistant secretary Pauly Jean Russel Ubial said that they cannot also go after these ATM operators because it is the responsibility of the Local Government Unit. She said the LGUs should be vigilant about it to protect the welfare of its constituents. She also urged the public to exercise caution.

“Make sure that the bottled water came from refilling stations licensed with BFAD. If container does not have a label you have to suspect. It is the individual’s responsibility. Hindi tayo iinom kung saan saan lang,” Ubial added.

ATM is sprouting all over the urban centers because it is accessible and economical.—(FREEMAN)