Together with EcoWaste Coalition, the ASMPH Center for Research and Innovation (ACRI) organized a seminar on the health risks of hazardous chemical wastes last 5 December 2023 (Tuesday) at the Multi-Purpose Hall (MPH), ASMPH. Facilitated by Mr. Manny Calonzo, an environmental advocate from EcoWaste Coalition, the activity was attended by at least 60 participants from various community-based organizations in Cavite, Tondo, Malabon, and Caloocan.

Bantay Bata: Promoting the Health of our Children from Chemical Hazards

Dr. Geminn Louis Apostol, head of ACRI’s Environmental Health Flagship Team, delved into the six (6) key environmental contaminants threatening children’s health — air pollution, tobacco smoking, chemicals in products, plastic hazards, pesticides in food, and hazardous waste. In particular, he explored the health risks and exposure pathways of the aforementioned hazards, accentuating its cumulative impact from early fetal life to late adulthood.

E-Wastes: Hazards and Health Effects

Conversely, Environmental Health Specialist, Dr. Sary Valenzuela, highlighted the hazards of electronic waste, emphasizing the persistence of heavy metals like lead, chromium, and mercury. Strategies for the prevention and management of e-waste were also captured in her report, such as the proper handling and disposal of e-waste, recycling, and monitoring of e-waste sites.

Interactive Learning: Grassroot Insights Minimizing Risks from Hazardous Chemicals

Acknowledging grassroots wisdom, Dr. Apostol spearheaded a dynamic session engaging participants in the exploration of their ISA commitments aimed at reducing health hazards posed by harmful chemicals, identifying their individual commitments to stop (Ititigil), initiate (Sisimulan), and which topics they feel they want to educate themselves further on (Aalamin). 

This endeavor is part of the ongoing partnership between EcoWaste Coalition and the Ateneo Center for Research and Innovation, dedicated to heightening awareness of the threats and exposure to hazardous chemical wastes to the most vulnerable groups in the Philippines.